The cervical cap was most likely invented during the 19th century and was rediscovered in 1908 by a Viennese physician. The cap was always more popular in Europe than in the US, and the introduction of oral contraceptives and the IUD in the 1960s led to a declining interest in barrier methods. In 1977, the US Food and Drug Administration banned distribution of the cervical cap, presumably in reaction to outbreaks of toxic shock syndrome and despite rising interest in the device on the part of the woman's health movement. It is important for health educators to be informed about empirical research about the cervical cap so that they can counsel consumers in the event that the device is reclassified for general use. Acceptor studies have identified convenience, safety, spontaneity, and comfort as reasons for selecting the cervical cap, while difficult insertion and removal, odor, partner discomfort, and uncertainty about contraceptive effectiveness are cited as reasons for disliking this device. Dislodgement has been a major problem, experienced by almost half of cap acceptors at some point. Discontinuation rates after 6 months of use have been in the 25-40% range. No cases of pelvic inflammatory disease or significant cervical pathology have been recorded. The unplanned pregnancy rate associated with the cervical cap has been estimated to be about 8%. Omission of spermicide, dislodgement, faulty technique, and irregular usage account for most of these failures. There is a need for additional research addressing the issues and documenting the limits of safe cervical cap use.