Cervical mucus

The secret produced by the cervix is ​​called cervical mucus. Its function, first of all, in the so-called protection of spermatozoa, trying to get into the uterine cavity. As you know, the vagina has an acidic environment, and the cervical mucus - alkaline. In addition, the presence of this secret stimulates a more active movement of male sex cells, because spermatozoa quickly die in the absence of a liquid medium.

Cervical mucus has the property of changing by the day of the cycle. In this case, a change is observed both in the consistency of the given secret and in its quantity. Let's consider this phenomenon in more detail and tell you about the appearance of cervical mucus in each phase of the cycle and in the period of gestation of the baby.

How does cervical mucus change?

Cervical mucus after menstruation is allocated in very low concentration or completely absent. The woman at this time notes the dryness of the vagina. Often, gynecologists call these days "dry".

After about 2-3 days, the nature of the cervical secretions changes. According to the consistency, mucus begins to resemble glue, it becomes much thicker, while its volume decreases.

Closer to ovulation cervical mucus thinning, and in its appearance begins to resemble a fairly thick cream. Its color also changes (usually it is transparent) to white, occasionally with a yellowish tinge. During this period, girls notice the appearance of traces on their underwear, which is the norm, because secret is produced much more. Thus, the female organism is preparing for possible fertilization, creating a favorable environment for spermatozoa.

When ovulation cervical mucus becomes transparent, in appearance and consistency is very similar to raw egg white.

Women at this time note the strong moisture of the vagina. This type of mucus is the most favorable for the life of spermatozoa, so at this time it is better to refrain from sexual intercourse with women who do not plan pregnancy, or use contraceptives.

After ovulation, the cervical mucus becomes thicker, because there is a decrease in the hormone estrogen in the female body. The amount of secretion is also reduced. Before the menstrual cervical mucus becomes more watery or completely disappears.

How does the secret of the cervix change during the child's bearing?

Cervical mucus begins to thicken after the conception has occurred. Potential cells lining the cervical canal produce much more secret, which thickens and forms a cork. It is the barrier to pathogenic microorganisms throughout the gestation period.

At a normal current pregnancy, cervical mucus should be thick all the time. If its consistency suddenly changes and it becomes drawn or completely liquid, or completely absent, it is necessary to inform the doctor who is monitoring the pregnancy. Such a phenomenon may be a sign of a developing threat of miscarriage or infection. However, this phenomenon can not be called an unambiguous symptom of the disturbance. Therefore, do not panic, having noticed such changes in yourself.

Departure of the mucous plug occurs, as a rule, closer to childbirth. But it is impossible to name a specific time in which such a situation should be noted. Normally, it is considered that the plug does not depart earlier than 14 days before delivery. It should be noted that in obstetrics there are numerous cases when she went out before the very outpouring of amniotic fluid, i.e. a few hours before the baby's birth.

As can be seen from the article, knowing about the consistency and appearance of the cervical mucus during this or that period of the cycle, the woman will be able to approximately set the time of ovulation in her body and even presume the pregnancy that started before the test.