Cervical mucus plays a fundamental role in the conception process by nourishing and protecting sperm as it makes the long, arduous journey through the female reproductive tract to meet the egg. So, as you become more familiar with your cervical mucus, you will be able to better time having sex in order to conceive.
In simple terms, cervical mucus is a fluid secreted by the cervix, the production of which is stimulated by the hormone estrogen. Throughout your menstrual cycle, the amount and quality of mucus that is produced will fluctuate, and by observing these changes you can begin to predict the most fertile days in your cycle.
As you approach ovulation, your estrogen levels begin to surge, which causes your cervix to secrete more mucus that is of a so-called “fertile quality”. This fertile-quality cervical mucus, also known as egg white cervical mucus (EWCM), is clear and stretchy, similar to the consistency of egg whites, and is the perfect protective medium for sperm in terms of texture and pH.
Having enough egg white cervical mucus during your fertile window will actually improve your chances of conceiving. And, by noticing when your body is producing the egg white mucus, you will be able to identify your most fertile days.
The most accurate way to identify changes is to collect and observe a sample of mucus on a daily basis. To do this, wash and dry your hands well, then insert your middle or index finger into your vagina, getting as close to your cervix as possible.
You may also notice cervical mucus when you use toilet paper to wipe. You can use either method (checking at your cervix or when you wipe); just make sure you are consistent in using the same method each day.
Remove your finger and observe the consistency of the mucus sample by rolling the mucus between your thumb and finger, pressing your fingers together, and then slowly moving them apart.
Progression of cervical mucus quantity and quality through your menstrual cycle
- After your menstrual period: The production of cervical mucus is at its lowest immediately following your period, and some women report “dryness” during this time. But, over the next several days, more mucus will become present, and it will likely be yellow, cloudy, or white in color, and somewhat sticky the touch.
- Your Ovulation Date Approaches: As you enter your fertile window, your cervical mucus will increase in quantity and moistness. Its color may be cream-like in appearance.
- At the Time of Ovulation: In the days immediately preceding ovulation, the production of cervical mucus will be at its highest and the consistency and color of the mucus will be similar to egg whites. Once you detect the presence of this fertile-quality cervical mucus, you will know you are in your most fertile days.
- After Ovulation: After ovulation, the quantity of cervical mucus begins to decline and become thicker in consistency.
Unfortunately, after tracking changes in your cervical mucus, you might find that you really don’t produce very much fertile-quality cervical mucus around the time of ovulation. Or, you might even realize that the cervical mucus you produce is “hostile”, meaning it is thick and sticky, instead of thin and stretchy around ovulation.
Either condition can hinder your reproductive efforts by making it difficult for sperm to travel efficiently and safely to the fallopian tube to meet the egg for fertilization.
Insufficient production of fertile-quality cervical mucus or the presence of hostile cervical mucus may result from a variety of factors including diet, stress, hormonal issues, or even from taking prescription medications like Clomid.
Suggestions for improving your quantity and quality of cervical mucus
First and foremost, staying properly hydrated is very important, so be sure to drink plenty of water. Secondly, taking a dietary supplement designed to increase cervical mucus production and tone the lining of the uterus, can enhance your trying-to-conceive efforts.
And finally, while you work to improve your production, consider using a sperm-friendly lubricant that features a pH and consistency that is similar to egg white cervical mucus and can be used during intercourse to help as many sperms as possible survive the journey through your reproductive tract.
Our Ultimate Fertility Resource Guide provides the information you need on fertility, tips on how to get pregnant faster, and how to boost fertility through sometimes simple tweaks to your lifestyle and approach. The guide is easy to read and meant for anybody wanting to increase their ability to conceive. It’s a free download and includes coupon codes for essential products. Even free Nightfood Nighttime Ice Cream.
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Compiled using information from the following sources:
1. Weschler, T. (2002). Taking charge of your fertility. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers Inc.
Mayo Clinic: The Cervical Mucus Method
