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. This makes it easy to know when you are most likely to ovulate. You can use these aspects if you want to learn more about your body or are trying to conceive.
Although it may sound difficult to check your cervix, it gets easier once you understand what to look for. For this, you must know what the cervix is and how it changes during your cycle. This will help you track your ovulation naturally.
What is the Cervix?
The cervix is the lower and narrow part of your uterus (where a baby grows during pregnancy). It is like a small tunnel that bridges your vagina and uterus.Your cervix changes its position and texture throughout your menstrual cycle. It also opens and closes during this time. These changes occur due to the hormones involved in your cycle, especially oestrogen.
Why Is the Cervical Position Important?
Your body is most fertile around ovulation due to the release of various hormones. Your cervix reacts to these hormonal levels. It rises, softens, and opens slightly to allow sperm to pass through more easily.The cervical position helps you track ovulation during your cycle, which can improve your chances of conceiving. This is a natural method and does not require any tools.
How Your Cervical Position Changes Throughout the Cycle
You can notice the following changes in your cervix during the different phases of your menstrual cycle.Menstruation (period time)
Your cervix sits low and feels hard during your period. It opens just enough to let the menstrual flow out.- Position: Low in the vagina
- Feel: Firm, like the tip of your nose
- Opening: Slightly open to let menstrual blood pass
After the period (follicular phase)
Your body prepares for ovulation after your period ends. Your cervix may still feel firm, but it gradually becomes softer.- Position: Still low but starting to rise
- Feel: Becoming softer
- Opening: Begins to close
Ovulation (fertile window)
Your cervix is in its fertile state during ovulation. It rises high and becomes soft and moist. It also opens to allow sperm to enter easily, increasing your chances of conceiving.Position: High in the vagina (difficult to feel)
- Feel: Soft, like your lips
- Opening: Open
After Ovulation (luteal phase)
Your cervix returns to a lower and firmer position after ovulation. The opening also closes, especially if there is no pregnancy.- Position: Lower again
- Feel: Firm
- Opening: Closes
How to Check Your Cervical Position
You may feel unsure about checking your cervix at first, but with practise, it gets easier. The following is a simple guide to help you track cervical position.- Wash your hands to avoid any infection.
- Find a comfortable position. You can stand with one leg on the toilet or squat.
- Insert one or two fingers gently into your vagina. Continue moving through it slowly to feel the cervix. It will feel like a small, round bump with a slight dimple in the middle.
- Notice the height (low or high), the texture (firm or soft), and the openness (closed or open).
Tips for Tracking Cervical Changes
- Be consistent: Check your cervix every day to understand its pattern.
- Combine with other signs: You can also track cervical mucus, basal body temperature, or use ovulation test kits for more accuracy.
- Avoid checking during or right after sex: You can confuse the semen with discharge or the feel of your cervix.
- Don’t worry if it takes time: It may take 2–3 cycles before you can identify the changes.
What If You Can’t Reach or Feel It Clearly?
Sometimes, your cervix may be difficult to find, especially during ovulation when it is high. Do not force yourself, as it is not a concerning issue. You can try again the next day. Remember that everybody is different, and it may take time to feel the effects of the changes.Using Cervical Position to Predict Ovulation
When you notice that your cervix is high, soft, or open, you are likely in your fertile window. This is the ideal time for intercourse if you want to achieve pregnancy.Starting a day or two before ovulation is very effective. The sperm stays active inside your body for up to 5 days, which further improves your chances.
However, when your cervix lowers, becomes firm, and closes, ovulation has likely passed.
Advantages of Tracking Cervical Position
- Non-invasive: No blood tests or devices are required.
- Natural: You learn to understand your body’s natural signs.
- Empowering: It gives you more control over your fertility.
- Cost-effective: It does not cost anything to check your cervix.
When to Talk to a Healthcare Professional
Tracking your cervical changes is just one method for monitoring your ovulation. However, it is not entirely accurate and should be used in conjunction with other ovulation tracking methods.Also, if you are not pregnant even after trying for a year or are above 35 years, consult your doctor to get medical assistance. You should also reach out in the following situations.
- You experience pain or discomfort when checking your cervix.
- Your menstrual cycle is very irregular.
- If you suspect infections or abnormal discharge.
Understanding the changes in your cervix is a simple yet powerful way to understand your fertility. By tracking your cervical changes throughout your cycle, you can predict your most fertile days. It will also improve your chances of getting pregnant.
This method does not require expensive tools or complicated steps. All it takes is regular observation, clean hands, and a little patience. You will learn to recognise the signs over time and use them to your advantage.
So, if you are ready to take charge of your fertility naturally, checking your cervical position can be the next step in your journey.
FAQs on What Your Cervical Position Can Reveal About Ovulation
- Is checking cervical position a reliable way to know if I’m ovulating?
Although cervical position gives clues about your ovulation, it is not 100% accurate on its own. You may have to combine it with other methods to improve accuracy. These include checking cervical mucus, using ovulation kits, or monitoring your basal body temperature. - How long does it take to learn how to read cervical position changes?
Most women take up to three menstrual cycles to correctly recognise the changes in cervical position. You may find it confusing at first, but it gradually improves with time and practise. - Is it safe to check my cervix every day?
It is considered safe to check the cervix. However, you must wash your hands before checking and do it gently. You can also avoid checking in case of a vaginal infection or any irritation. Also, stop if you experience pain.