Cervical CapvsInternal Condom

A side-by-side comparison of two birth control methods — efficacy, cost, how they work, and who shouldn't use them.

Side-by-side comparison

Method	Cervical Cap A small silicone cap that fits over the cervix by suction, used with spermicide before sex.	Internal Condom A soft pouch worn inside the vagina that blocks sperm and protects against STIs, available by prescription.
Efficacy	Least effective see details Least effective: under 90 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.	79% typical use Least effective: under 90 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.
Cost	$73–$97 Insurance: Usually	$0–$4 /per unit Insurance: Usually
Duration	Reusable for 2 years (replace every 2 years or sooner if damaged)	Single use
Reversibility	Reversible	Reversible
STI Protection	No	Yes
How it works	A small silicone cap fits snugly over the cervix and stays in place by suction, blocking sperm from entering the uterus. Used with spermicide inside the cap.	A soft, loose-fitting nitrile pouch lines the vagina and collects semen. The inner ring anchors it at the cervix and the outer ring stays outside the vaginal opening.
Prescription	Required Prescription required	Required Prescription required
Side effects	Vaginal irritation from spermicide Discomfort if not fitted correctly Unusual vaginal discharge if left in too long	Mild irritation or discomfort Noise during use if not positioned correctly Slippage with incorrect insertion
Who shouldn't use this	Cervical anomaly preventing fit Active pelvic infection Sensitivity to silicone or spermicide Inability to insert or remove reliably	Sensitivity to nitrile (rare)

Key differences

Cervical Cap duration: Reusable for 2 years (replace every 2 years or sooner if damaged). Internal Condom duration: Single use. Only Internal Condom protects against STIs. Cervical Cap: costs $73–$97. Internal Condom: costs $0–$4 per unit.