The use of cervical caps at the University of California, Berkeley: a survey

A survey of cap use and efficacy of women who initially purchased a cervical cap at the University of California at Berkeley Student Health Service is described. It reports the follow-up of 65 U.C. women students who purchased either Vimule or Cavity-rim cervical caps from May, 1978 through June, 1981 and raises questions about cervical cap use and efficacy. Participants were divided into two groups: regular and irregular users. Of the 33 regular users, 16 experienced unplanned pregnancy during the study. Survival probabilities were 80% at 6 months, 73% at one year and 52% after 2 years. Life table analysis of the 33 regular users indicated a 20% probability of pregnancy in the first 6 months of use, 27% by 1 year and 48% by the end of 2 years.