What the Cervical Mucus

What is cervical mucus?

Cervical mucus is a fluid that is produced by the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. It helps to keep the vagina moist and lubricated, and it also helps to protect the uterus from infection.

How does cervical mucus change during the menstrual cycle?

The amount, consistency, and color of cervical mucus change throughout the menstrual cycle. These changes are caused by changes in the levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone.

* Estrogen causes the production of more cervical mucus. This mucus is thin and watery, and it helps to sperm travel to the uterus.

* Progesterone causes the production of less cervical mucus. This mucus is thick and sticky, and it helps to prevent sperm from entering the uterus.

What do the different types of cervical mucus mean?

The different types of cervical mucus can give you clues about where you are in your menstrual cycle.

* Thin and watery cervical mucus means that you are in the follicular phase of your cycle, which is the time between your period and ovulation.

* Thick and sticky cervical mucus means that you are in the luteal phase of your cycle, which is the time between ovulation and your next period.

* Bloody or brown cervical mucus can be a sign of ovulation, or it can indicate that your period is starting.

If you are trying to conceive, you can use cervical mucus to help you track your ovulation. By paying attention to the changes in your cervical mucus, you can identify the days when you are most fertile. This information can help you to plan intercourse so that you have the best chance of getting pregnant.

Here are some tips for tracking your cervical mucus:

* Check your cervical mucus every day, ideally first thing in the morning.

* Use a clean tissue or your fingers to collect a sample of cervical mucus.

* Note the amount, consistency, and color of your cervical mucus.

* Keep a chart of your cervical mucus changes so that you can see patterns over time.

If you have any questions about cervical mucus, talk to your doctor.