Lea contraceptivum

Eva Rudolf-Müller is a freelance writer in the medical team. She studied human medicine and newspaper sciences and has repeatedly worked in both areas - as a doctor in the clinic, as a reviewer, and as a medical journalist for various specialist journals. She is currently working in online journalism, where a wide range of medicine is offered to everyone.

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The lea contraceptive is a form of the cervical cap that prevents conception using the barrier principle. The silicone cap attaches to the cervix after insertion into the vagina, thus preventing sperm from entering the uterus. However, the lea contraceptive has not been available since 2014. Learn more about the Lea contraceptivum.

Lea contraceptivum: application

The lea contraceptive is only used when necessary. About two hours to 15 minutes before sexual intercourse, the silicone cap must be inserted into the vagina and placed over the cervix, where it will be attached. The cap is only available in one size that fits all women. To increase safety, the lea contraceptive should be coated with a spermicidal gel before each use, which makes the sperm unable to move or fertilize. Some of the gel is put into the cap, some spread around the outside and some goes into the space between the dome and the outer edge.

After sexual intercourse, the lea contraceptive must remain on the cervix for at least eight hours, because that is roughly how long the sperm can survive in the woman's body. However, it should not stay in the vagina for more than 48 hours. To remove the silicone cap, it must be moved back and forth using its loop to release the negative pressure that has formed when it was put on. The lea contraceptive can then be removed by gently pulling on the tab. You may also be able to slide a finger between the edge of the cap and the cervix to make it easier to detach. Once removed, wash the lea contraceptivum with soap and water and allow it to air dry.

How safe is the lea contraceptive?

The Pearl Index shows how many out of a hundred women who use the same method of contraception for a year still get pregnant. For the lea contraceptive the value is 2.9, with the additional use of a spermicidal gel it is 2.2.

What are the advantages of the lea contraceptive?

The Lea contraceptivum is suitable for all women who only occasionally have sexual intercourse and therefore do not need permanent contraception. It works without any hormones, which makes it interesting for women who do not want or are not allowed to use hormonal contraception. In addition, the silicone cap is easy to use at any time with a little practice. In contrast to other pessaries, which are closed, the Lea contraceptivum has a valve through which secretion from the uterus can drain.And last but not least, it is made of silicone and can therefore also be used by women with a latex allergy.

What are the disadvantages of the lea contraceptive?

Some women and men can feel the lea contraceptive during sexual intercourse, which is occasionally perceived as annoying. Skin irritation and allergic reactions are rare. If a burning sensation occurs or you experience a sensation of warmth, consider trying other spermicide.

You cannot use the Lea contraceptivum in the puerperium or in the case of malformations of the uterus or vagina.