The cervix is a muscular, tunnel-like organ that forms the lower part of the uterus, connecting it to the vagina. Often referred to as the “neck of the uterus,” it facilitates the passage of fluids, such as menstrual blood, from the uterus to the vagina and allows sperm to travel from the vagina into the uterus.
Understanding Cervical Position
The cervix’s position, firmness, and openness fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, primarily influenced by hormonal shifts like estrogen and progesterone. Its position within the vaginal canal is described as “high” or “low.” A high cervix sits deeper and is harder to reach, while a low cervix is closer to the vaginal opening and easier to feel. These natural fluctuations adapt to different cycle phases.
Checking Your Cervix Manually
To check your cervix manually, ensure hygiene and accuracy. Begin by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water to prevent introducing bacteria into the vagina. Trimming your nails can also help avoid accidental scratches or injury.
Find a comfortable position, such as squatting, sitting on the toilet, or standing with one leg elevated on a stool. Relaxing your pelvic floor muscles can make the process easier. Gently insert your longest finger, often the middle finger, into your vagina, aiming upwards and backwards. You may need to insert your finger quite deeply to reach the cervix, as its position varies.
The vaginal walls will feel soft and spongy, but the cervix will feel distinctly firmer, like a protruding nub or cylinder at the end of the vaginal canal. Some compare its firmer texture to the tip of your nose, while a softer cervix might feel more like pursed lips.
Feel for its height (how far up it is), its firmness (soft or firm), and the openness of the os, the small opening in the center. Consistently checking at the same time each day, such as after a shower, helps in accurately tracking these subtle changes over time.
Interpreting Cervical Position
During menstruation, the cervix is typically low in the vagina, feels firm, and is slightly open to allow menstrual blood to flow out. After menstruation, in the follicular phase, the cervix remains low and firm, and its opening is closed.
As ovulation approaches, estrogen levels rise, causing the cervix to gradually rise higher in the vagina, soften, and become more open. At the time of ovulation, the cervix is often at its highest point, soft to the touch, and open, which facilitates the entry of sperm. This position is sometimes described as “SHOW” (soft, high, open, wet).
Following ovulation, during the luteal phase, progesterone levels increase, and the cervix typically drops back down, becomes firm, and closes again. If conception occurs, the cervix generally remains high in the vagina, similar to its ovulatory position, but becomes soft and tightly closed to protect the developing pregnancy. While tracking cervical position can provide insights into your cycle, these observations are not definitive diagnostic tools for ovulation or pregnancy and should be considered alongside other body signs.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
Self-checking cervical position can be a useful tool for personal awareness, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you experience difficulty interpreting your findings or have persistent uncertainty about what you are feeling, consulting a healthcare provider is advisable.
It is also important to seek medical attention if you notice any pain, discomfort, unusual bleeding, or other concerning symptoms during self-examination. Changes such as unusual discharge, odor, or any significant alterations that cause concern warrant a professional evaluation. If you are using cervical position tracking as part of family planning, seeking confirmation or guidance from a healthcare professional can provide more reliable information.