The cervix is the lower, narrow part of the uterus, forming a canal that connects it to the vagina. It acts as a gateway, allowing menstrual blood to exit and facilitating sperm passage. Feeling for your cervix can enhance body awareness, aid in fertility tracking by observing subtle changes, or simply satisfy curiosity about your internal anatomy.
Understanding the Cervix’s Location
The vagina is a muscular, elastic canal extending from the external genitals into the pelvis. It typically angles slightly backward and upward, serving as a pathway for menstrual flow and sexual activity.
At the deepest point of the vaginal canal, the cervix is located as the lower, narrow part of the uterus, protruding into the vaginal space. It forms a distinct, firm structure at the very end of the passage. By following the vaginal walls inward, you will eventually reach the cervix, which acts as the gateway to the uterus.
Preparing for Self-Examination
Before attempting to feel for your cervix, ensure proper hygiene to prevent bacteria introduction. Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and warm water, paying attention to under the fingernails.
Find a comfortable and private setting for a relaxed experience. Many find it easiest to assume a position similar to inserting a tampon, such as squatting, sitting on the toilet, or standing with one leg elevated. Relaxation helps, as tension can constrict vaginal muscles and make the cervix harder to reach.
Step-by-Step Guide to Self-Examination
Once your hands are clean and you are in a relaxed, comfortable position, gently insert one or two fingers into your vagina. The middle finger, sometimes accompanied by the index finger, is often most effective for reaching the cervix. Guide your fingers slowly along the vaginal walls, aiming for the deepest part of the canal.
The vaginal canal typically extends about three to six inches (7.5 to 15 cm) inward, though this length can vary. Continue guiding your fingers along the upper wall of the vagina, following its natural curve, towards the very end of the passage where the cervix is situated.
As your fingers reach the deepest part, you will encounter a distinct, rounded structure: the cervix. It might feel firm and smooth, similar to the tip of your nose, or it could feel softer, more like pursed lips, depending on your menstrual cycle phase. Its texture naturally changes throughout the month.
Gently explore the surface of the cervix with your fingertips. You may feel a small indentation or opening in the center, which is the os. This opening is the passageway through which menstrual blood exits and sperm can enter the uterus. Prioritize gentle movements to ensure comfort.
During your examination, you might also notice the position of your cervix. It can be lower and more accessible during certain times of your cycle, and higher or harder to reach at others. Patience helps in becoming familiar with these natural variations in its position and texture over time.
Interpreting Your Findings
A normal cervix typically feels smooth and rounded, but its texture varies significantly throughout the menstrual cycle. Around the time of ovulation, the cervix often feels softer, similar to pursed lips. During other phases of the cycle, such as after menstruation or before ovulation, it may feel firmer, comparable to the tip of your nose. This change in firmness is a natural response to hormonal fluctuations.
The position of the cervix also changes. Around ovulation, it tends to be higher in the vaginal canal and more open, which facilitates sperm entry. After ovulation or during menstruation, it typically lowers and feels more closed.
The os, the small opening in the center of the cervix, will also vary. It generally feels more open and softer when ovulating, and firmer and more closed at other times. Familiarizing yourself with these normal cyclical changes can provide insights into your body’s rhythms.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While self-examination fosters body awareness, it is not a substitute for regular medical check-ups or professional screening tests like Pap smears. These professional examinations detect abnormalities that self-examination cannot.
Consult a healthcare professional if you experience any pain during self-examination or notice unusual discharge, persistent itching, or abnormal growths. Any significant, unexplained changes in the texture or appearance of your cervix that cause concern also warrant medical attention.
If you have difficulty locating your cervix, or are worried about any of your findings, seeking professional guidance is recommended. A healthcare provider can offer reassurance, perform a thorough examination, and address any specific questions or concerns regarding your reproductive health.