The cervix is a narrow, fibromuscular structure that forms the lower portion of the uterus, connecting it to the vagina. Often described as the “neck of the uterus,” it acts as a gateway, permitting the passage of menstrual blood out and sperm into the uterine cavity. Cervix height is not static, and tracking its changes provides insights into your body’s natural processes.
Understanding Cervix Position Changes
The cervix is a dynamic organ that changes position and texture in response to hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle, primarily dictated by estrogen and progesterone. Around the time of ovulation, the cervix typically rises higher in the vaginal canal, becoming softer and slightly more open. This high, receptive state facilitates the entry of sperm.
Conversely, the cervix tends to sit lower and feel firmer during menstruation and the non-fertile phases of the cycle. This lower position, often described as feeling like the tip of the nose, allows menstrual fluid to exit the uterus. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur in early pregnancy, can also cause the cervix to elevate and become softer. Sexual arousal can temporarily cause the uterus to pull upward, making the cervix seem higher.
How to Measure Your Cervix Height
Self-checking your cervix height requires clean hands, a comfortable position, and consistency. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, and trim any sharp fingernails before starting. Finding a consistent posture, such as squatting or standing with one leg raised, helps ensure accurate comparisons over time.
Gently insert your index or middle finger until you feel the firm, rounded tissue of the cervix at the end of the canal. The cervix feels distinctively smooth and firm, often compared to the texture of the tip of your nose. Note the depth of insertion by marking where your finger meets the vaginal opening with your thumb before removing your hand.
If your finger reaches the cervix easily, usually within the length of the first knuckle, you likely have a low cervix. An average cervix height is typically found around the second knuckle, or between 45 to 55 millimeters from the opening. If you have a high cervix, your finger will be inserted nearly its full length, or you may be unable to reach the cervix at all. Measure during your period, as the cervix is usually at its lowest point then, providing the most relevant measurement for internal product fitting.
If you experience any pain, unusual discharge, or bleeding, consult a healthcare professional. Consistent tracking over a few cycles can help you map your personal high and low cervix positions.
Why Knowing Your Cervix Height Matters
Understanding your cervix height is important for choosing internal menstrual products, particularly cups and discs. These products are sized based on the space available in the vaginal canal, determined by the distance to the cervix. A low cervix, less than 44 millimeters from the opening, requires a shorter cup or disc to prevent uncomfortable protrusion.
If your cervix is low, a standard-length menstrual cup may be too long, causing the stem to irritate the sensitive tissue near the vaginal entrance. Conversely, a high cervix, typically measured at 55 millimeters or more, necessitates a longer cup or disc to ensure it remains easily reachable for removal. Using a cup that is too short with a high cervix can make retrieval difficult and frustrating.
Tracking cervix position is also a component of the Fertility Awareness Method (FAM). Monitoring changes in height and texture helps identify the fertile window. The transition to a high, soft, and slightly open cervix, often accompanied by a change in cervical mucus, indicates that ovulation is approaching.
Once ovulation has passed, the cervix returns to a lower, firmer, and closed position for the remainder of the cycle. Combining cervix checks with other fertility signs, such as basal body temperature, offers a comprehensive picture of hormonal status. Knowing your cervix height and its cyclical pattern helps monitor reproductive health and inform choices about internal care products.