Barrier contraception is receiving renewed interest, especially among people exploring hormone-free options that can be used only when needed.
One important factor shared by all internal barrier methods is fit: a device that sits correctly is more comfortable and more effective.
Traditionally, using a diaphragm or cervical cap has involved seeing a healthcare professional who can ensure it covers the cervix securely and sits comfortably in place. In some countries, clinicians may fit users from a range of diaphragm sizes using a fitting kit. In others, including the United States where the currently available diaphragm is a single-size design intended to fit most users, consultations may focus more on confirming correct positioning and providing guidance on insertion rather than choosing between multiple sizes.
Even in well-resourced healthcare systems, access to clinicians trained in supporting barrier-method use is not always consistent.
A Different Design Approach
FemCap is a small, reusable cervical cap designed to make barrier contraception more practical and accessible. Like other barrier methods, it covers the cervix, but it stays in place differently. Diaphragms rely on support from the vaginal walls and pubic bone, while FemCap sits directly on the cervix. Single-size options like the Caya diaphragm may not fit everyone perfectly without a professional fitting. FemCap’s sizing system, on the other hand, allows users to make an informed decision and quickly identify a likely size.
FemCap follows a simple three-size model:
- 22 mm: typically for women who have never been pregnant
- 26 mm: typically for women who have been pregnant but not delivered vaginally (including planned C-section, miscarriage, or abortion)
- 30 mm: typically for women who have had a vaginal delivery
This straightforward system was originally designed to improve access in settings where trained healthcare providers may not be available. In many parts of the world, limited access to reproductive healthcare can make barrier methods difficult to obtain. Allowing users to make an informed first estimate of their likely size makes barrier contraception more practical. Over time, this feature has also proved helpful in well-resourced healthcare systems, where some people may still find fitting appointments challenging.
Self-Sizing as a Practical First Step
In the UK, many people can access barrier contraception without a prescription, which makes it possible to estimate a likely FemCap size based on cervical changes. This approach can also be helpful in some developing countries where access to trained healthcare providers is limited, giving users a practical first step toward professional guidance. Even so, professional input remains valuable. A healthcare provider can confirm that the selected size fits correctly, ensure that the method is medically suitable, and offer hands-on coaching for insertion, removal, and positioning. Many users find that this guidance makes learning to use a cervical cap easier and more reassuring.
Self-sizing is best understood as a practical first step that supports users in exploring barrier contraception while still encouraging follow-up with a trained professional for confirmation and support.
Why Cervical Size Matters
This self-sizing approach works because cervical diameter changes in predictable ways over time. For those who have never been pregnant, the cervix is generally smaller, corresponding to the smallest FemCap size. Pregnancy, even if it does not continue to delivery, can cause permanent changes to cervical diameter, making the medium size the most suitable. Vaginal delivery causes further changes, which is why the largest size is used for those who have delivered vaginally. Because these changes are generally consistent, they provide a reliable starting point for selecting a likely FemCap size, helping users take an informed first step before confirming fit with a healthcare professional.
Supporting Choice in Barrier Contraception
When healthcare professionals experienced in fitting cervical barrier methods are available, clinical fitting remains the gold standard for ensuring barrier contraception is used correctly and confidently. In settings where access to fitting services is limited, whether in some areas of the UK or in parts of the world with fewer trained providers, estimating a likely FemCap size based on obstetric history provides a practical first step and guides users toward professional support. Even for those who have already obtained a cervical cap independently, a consultation with a trained provider can be valuable for confirming fit, offering hands-on coaching, and ensuring proper technique.
Healthcare professionals continue to play a central role in helping people choose and use barrier methods effectively. Combining clear information, practical support, and professional guidance helps users feel confident and understand which option works best for them. Understanding how barrier methods are sized, and why, can make hormone-free contraception more accessible, approachable, and empowering for anyone exploring their options.
To learn more or order your FemCap in the UK, visit: Fem-Cap.co.uk
For two decades David has been the owner and director of several marketing and distribution companies. During this time he has learned the indisputable benefits of looking after customers, colleagues, workers, suppliers and the local community, treating them all as respected stakeholders in a common project. Recently he consolidated his personal beliefs and business ethics by founding and developing several ethical companies.
