I scratched my cervix when taking out my cervical cap. Is that going to keep happening?

I scratched the surface of my cervix.

Nov 10, 2021 Updated: Aug 28, 2025

Ouch! The good news is that the cervix heals pretty quickly. You might want to practice putting in and taking out your cap before you need it for birth control. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll get and hopefully it won’t happen very often.

Still not working?

If you want to try something else and really want to stick with a barrier method, check out one that you don’t have to insert, like condoms.

Want to learn more?

Select one of the related topics to find more.

cervical cap birth control
Bedsider
Bedsider and Birth control

You deserve access to birth control that fits your body, your life and your plans. Since 2011, Bedsider has been a trusted source of medically reviewed birth control information—covering every method available in the U.S. with guides, real user reviews, side-by-side comparisons, and a clinic search to help you find care near you or online.

Related methods

Dive in and learn all the details about these related birth control methods.

birth control
Cervical cap
Pretty effective if you use it correctly. Can be put in hours before having sex and doesn't affect your hormones.
birth control
Birth control ring
Very effective if you use it correctly. Easy to use and works like the pill, but you don't have to worry about it every day.
birth control
Birth control patch
Very effective if you use it correctly. Easy to use and works like the pill, but you only have to worry about it once a week.
birth control
Condom
Very effective if you use them correctly, but not super effective the way most people use them. Hormone free, protect against STIs, and don't require a prescription, but they do require work.
birth control
Internal condom (FC2)
Very effective if you use them correctly, but not super effective the way most people use them. Hormone free, protect against STIs, and great for those with latex allergies.
birth control
IUD
Super effective, lasts for years, low-maintenance, and private (though some partners can feel the strings). You can choose hormonal or non-hormonal.
birth control
Implant (Nexplanon)
Super effective, lasts for years, low-maintenance, and private.
birth control
Birth control shot
Very effective if you use it correctly. Lasts for months, is private, and is a good hormonal option for those who can't take estrogen.