Preliminary findings on used cervical caps.
Rubber cervical caps (Lambert-Dalston), used for periods of time ranging from 1 month to 3 years, were collected and assessed for deterioration and contamination as part of a product safety and efficacy study. Examination at magnification of 10 to 30 times as well as evaluation of surface damage and bulk mechanical properties revealed significant deterioration on all caps used consistently for more than one year. Changes were also evident on caps worn for shorter periods. Potential for adverse reaction from rubber degradation products and contamination adsorbed from disinfecting agents does not appear negligible. This problem, in combination with the inability to satisfactorily clean the caps after use, further limits their clinical value. A rethinking of cap design and the choice of better cap materials appears necessary to minimize long-term user problems and to mitigate product-related aesthetic deficiencies of this fertility control method.
D003257:Consumer Product Safety; D003274:Contraceptive Devices, Female; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D012408:Rubber; D013997:Time Factors
D012408:Rubber