How does the cervix change during pregnancy?

The basic shape of a woman's body will undergo major changes after pregnancy. Among them, the cervix changes the fastest. This is because the cervix will gradually close after pregnancy, ensuring that the environment for embryo development will not be affected by external factors. Understanding the changes in the cervix is ​​very useful for monitoring the fetal development process. Let's take a look at how the cervix changes during pregnancy. I hope you all understand.

The cervix is ​​a narrow, tube-like structure located at the lower end of the uterus. The cervix extends into the vagina and fills with mucus during pregnancy, called the mucus plug, which acts as a protective barrier. When pregnancy occurs, the cervix is ​​firmly positioned, long, and closed until late in pregnancy.

What does the cervix feel like in early pregnancy?

In early pregnancy, your cervix may feel soft and raised, and during pregnancy, it will contain more blood due to rising estrogen levels in the body. The cervix will rise, although it is difficult to know exactly when this will happen because every woman experiences it differently. This means that while you can sometimes tell if you're pregnant by feeling the position of your cervix, it's not always accurate because it may not have risen yet.

How is the position of the cervix tested?

You can check the position of the cervix yourself. First you need to find it. The cervix is ​​about 3-6 cm inside the vagina and generally feels like a small donut with a small hole in the middle. To check this area, first remember to wash your hands with soap, you can even check it directly after taking a shower, and also remember that you must be careful about long nails, as this may cause damage to the nails. Once you have done all of the above, you must consider avoiding the spread of germs. Use a comfortable sitting position and move your longest finger into the vagina; you may have to extend your finger several inches upward to feel the cervix.

Cervical length during pregnancy

Cervical length is often associated with preterm birth (labor starting before 37 weeks of pregnancy). Under normal circumstances, your cervix should be stiff and closed, gradually opening as your baby grows. If your cervix opens too early, you are at risk for preterm birth. Cervical length may also change if the uterus is overstretched, due to bleeding complications, inflammation, or infection.

Cervical mucus in early pregnancy

This mucus changes in early pregnancy, becoming thicker, clearer, and stickier, which can turn into a mucus plug during pregnancy. If you notice that your mucus is yellow or green, has an unpleasant odor, or is accompanied by itching, you may be dealing with an infection and should see a doctor immediately.