
Currently, there are many methods to help predict the time of ovulation, for example using the ovulation date test. However, the female body also has an equally accurate prediction that is completely free, which is observing the cervical mucus. Cyclic changes from cervical secretion are a simple, easy way for a woman to control her cycle and determine the best time to get pregnant. In contrast to the change in temperature that occurs after ovulation, the change in cervical mucus that occurs several days before ovulation predicts a good time to become pregnant.
What is the role of cervical mucus?
Cervical mucus is secreted from the cervix and is stimulated by the hormone estrogen . With each menstrual cycle, the amount and quality of mucus secreted changes. By observing these changes, you can predict the most appropriate date of conception in your cycle.
Cervical mucus acts as a barrier to sperm. It protects the cervix and forms a stopper that closes the cervical canal. The cervical mucus acts as a gatekeeper of the female genital system. The sperm that is released into the vagina must swim through the cervix, through the cervical mucus and go into the uterus and then to the fallopian tube for fertilization.
But during fertilization, the nature and composition of the mucus changes. Instead of a barrier, the mucus can help support and speed sperm through the cervix. In addition, the mucus helps prolong the life of the sperm, allowing them to live up to 5 days in the woman's body. The mucus even works as a "sperm screening unit" and captures abnormal or curved sperm.
By observing the woman's mucus it is possible to correctly determine the stage of ovulation increases the chance of pregnancy. The changes in mucus indicate how many days to go to ovulate and having sex during this time will ensure a smoother fertilization.
Women can track this amount of mucus through their own feelings or observations. The environment in the vagina changes with each stage in the cycle, you will feel dry, wet or wet, this is also a way to predict when to ovulate. Another way is to observe the appearance of the mucus, based on the color (transparent, opaque, opaque, creamy white) and the nature (sticky, smooth, smooth) of the mucus to make a prediction.
How does mucus change over each cycle stage?
The most accurate way to recognize cervical mucus changes is to collect and observe daily. To do this, wash and dry your hands, then place your middle or index finger in your vagina and bring it as close to your cervix as possible. Remove your finger and observe the properties of the sample by rolling the fluid between your thumb and index finger, pressing your hands together, then separating. You can also notice the nature of cervical mucus when you wipe it off with toilet paper. There are also a few other methods, such as a self-examination of the cervix or a swab, as long as you make sure to use the same method every day.
After menstruation: The amount of mucus is lowest and many women are very "dry" during this time. Over a few days, uterine fluid will appear more, yellow, dark or white, and slightly sticky to the touch.
On the day of ovulation: When you are ovulating, mucus increases in content and moisture. The color of the mucus can now be creamy white.
During ovulation: In the days immediately before ovulation, mucus is at its highest and its color and nature will be similar to egg whites. When this mucus comes out, you are in the days when it is most fertile.
After ovulation: After ovulation, the fluid content decreases and becomes denser.
Many women may think that looking at a piece of toilet paper or performing an internal examination is ... "weird". But this is the most "natural" test to determine one's cycle. Checking for mucus is a way women help themselves, use their own signals to predict the time of ovulation, help themselves learn to be knowledgeable and know the most likely time to get pregnant.