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  • Title: Acceptability of a new intravaginal barrier contraceptive device (Femcap).
    Author: Shihata AA, Gollub E.
    Journal: Contraception; 1992 Dec; 46(6):511-9. PubMed ID: 1493711.
    Abstract:
    A comprehensive questionnaire to assess acceptability was sent to 106 participants (and their partners) in a study on the safety and effectiveness of the Femcap. Participants were asked to rate their satisfaction with various aspects of the method, and were also asked about complaints such as vaginal infections, urinary tract infections, or other irritation. Eighty-one percent of the study sample either returned the mailed questionnaires or completed telephone interviews. Results were encouraging in that none of the study subjects or their partners reported any discomfort, trauma, or interference in sexual spontaneity with the cap. Vaginal irritation and infections were infrequently reported. The feature best liked by most participants was the absence of hormones associated with the method; the feature least liked was removal of the device. The Femcap may be an acceptable alternative to currently available barrier contraceptive devices. 86 (81%) of 106 women participating in a study of the barrier contraceptive Femcap answered a mailed questionnaire or completed a telephone interview about acceptability of the device. The Femcap is a silicone rubber rim and brim that covers both the cervix and a portion of the vagina, which is used with spermicide, self-inserted, and worn for a minimum of 8 hours after intercourse, or a maximum of 48 hours. The study of subjects were 18-40 years old, and were self-selected in that they entered the study because they either had intolerable side effects from or were dissatisfied with other contraceptive methods, or could not be fitted with a Prentif cervical cap. For the study the women demonstrated proficiency in inserting the device, and were followed every 3 months. 57% of the women used the Femcap for 12 cycles or more. 74% continued using it after 1 year. Reasons for discontinuing this method included desire to conceive, loss of sexual partner, and dislike of insertion and removal. Total women-months accumulated were 1300. Only 3 complained of side effects such as urinary tract infections or vaginal problems. The most liked features of the Femcap were absence of hormones (80%), lack of side effects, perceived contraceptive effectiveness, and control by the woman. The most disliked features were difficulty in removing the Femcap, irritation from spermicide, and the mechanics of insertion and removal. The Femcap is an attractive alternative barrier method because of its ready fit, lack of urinary tract infection side effects, and user-friendly teaching booklet and videotape.
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