Position and Texture Changes to Anticipate
Thecervixis the narrow end of theuterusthat connects to thevagina.
The cervix changes throughout themenstrual cycleand duringpregnancy.
Its location and texture also change as the body goes through hormonal shifts.
Photo composite by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images
The cervix sits higher near the uterus during pregnancy and lower duringmenstruation.
It usually feels firm, like unripened fruit, but softens during pregnancy.
It is a circular band of muscle that can change its shape, texture, and position.
Position and Texture
The menstrual cycle begins with your period (menstruation).
During menstruation, the cervix sits lower in the vagina.
Ovulationoccurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle, when theovariesrelease a mature egg.
During ovulation, the cervix rises to a higher level in the vagina.
The texture of the cervix is usually firm and may feel like unripened fruit.
After a Missed Period
The cervix sits higher in the vagina during ovulation.
If the mature egg released by the ovaries is fertilized by sperm, pregnancy may occur.
Once your body conceives, the cervix remains higher in the vagina.
Usually, it moves lower in the vagina during your period.
When youmiss your period, it remains high.
The cervix plays an important role during pregnancy.
During pregnancy, the cervix sits high in the vagina.
Its texture changes from firm to very soft.
Some people use it to determine when they are most fertile.
During ovulation, thecervical mucusfeels stretchy like egg whites.
Usually, after menstruation, cervical discharge thickens and dries up.
During pregnancy, most people experience an increase in the amount of discharge.
It may also become thicker.
Importance
A healthy cervix is essential for a healthy pregnancy.
Its purpose during pregnancy is to keep the fetus in the uterus until it is full-term.
At conception, the cervix creates thick, sticky mucus that forms the mucus plug.
This plug protects the fetus from infection during pregnancy.
Throughout the Trimesters
Before pregnancy, the cervix is long and firm in texture.
During pregnancy, the cervix softens and starts to become shorter.
You may have questions about checking your cervix at home.
Checking your cervix can be challenging.
Before pregnancy, the cervix will feel tight and firm.
Research shows that the more cervical checks a pregnant person has, the higher the risk for infection.
Cervical Complications in Early Pregnancy
The cervix provides an important barrier during pregnancy.
It protects against infection reaching the uterus and fetus and keeps the baby in the uterus until full term.
Complications of the cervix can cause serious problems for both a pregnant person and their baby.
Throughout your pregnancy, your healthcare provider will monitor your cervix.
Your provider can use a vaginal ultrasound or a pelvic exam to examine the cervix and diagnose any problems.
During this procedure, a healthcare provider reinforces the cervix by placing a stitch to keep it closed.
This helps to prevent the cervix from dilating too early in pregnancy.
Talk with your healthcare provider if you are concerned about or have a history of premature labor or birth.
Summary
The cervix connects the bottom of the uterus to the top of the vagina.
It goes through several changes throughout the menstrual cycle and during pregnancy.
During menstruation, the cervix sits lower in the vagina.
During ovulation and pregnancy, it rises higher in the vagina.
The cervix feels firm to the touch and softens throughout pregnancy.
The cervix provides a barrier for the fetus and protects against infection.
It also helps the fetus stay in the uterus until they are full-term.
Your healthcare provider may check your cervix during a pelvic exam or with a vaginal ultrasound.
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