does the cervix move during your period?
When it comes to understanding your body, there’s so much to learn – including how the cervix behaves. If you’ve ever wondered whether the cervix moves during your period, you're not alone! In fact, your cervix shifts and changes position throughout the entire menstrual cycle. Understanding how and why these changes occur can help you track fertility and gain better insight into your body. Let’s break it down.
what is the cervix, and why does it move?
The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Its primary function is to allow menstrual blood to exit the body and, if you're pregnant, act as a barrier to protect the baby from bacteria. Throughout your cycle, the cervix moves, changes position, and adjusts its texture due to hormonal fluctuations. This is completely normal!
does the cervix move during your period?
Yes, the cervix moves during your period and continues to change throughout your cycle. During menstruation, the cervix is typically lower and more open to allow the menstrual blood to pass through. After menstruation ends, it rises again as your body prepares for ovulation. Understanding these changes can help with cycle tracking, especially for fertility awareness.
how to check your cervix
If you’re curious about your cervix’s position during different parts of your cycle, you can check it yourself. With practice and patience, you’ll become more familiar with how it feels. Here’s how:
before you check your cervix
- Make sure you’re comfortable: Most prefer to squat or stand with one foot elevated on a step, but find a position that works for you.
- Wash your hands: This helps prevent infection.
- Be gentle: The cervix is sensitive, so take your time and avoid forcing anything.
step-by-step guide to checking your cervix
- Empty your bladder first to make reaching the cervix easier.
- Insert your fingers: Use your index or middle finger and gently insert it into your vagina.
- Feel for the cervix: It will feel like a small, firm bump. Its texture and position will vary based on your cycle phase.
- Note its position: Is it high or low? Soft or firm? Open or closed? These observations indicate where you are in your cycle.
what to look for in your cervix
- High or low: The cervix tends to be lower during your period and higher during ovulation.
- Soft or firm: During ovulation, it feels soft, like lips. At other times, it may feel firmer, like the tip of a nose.
- Open or closed: It will be open during menstruation and slightly open during ovulation to allow sperm to pass through.
cervix and menstruation: what’s happening?
cervix during your period
During menstruation, the cervix sits low and remains slightly open to allow menstrual flow. It also feels firm to the touch, making it easier to reach compared to other times in your cycle.
cervix after your period
After menstruation, the cervix gradually moves higher as the body prepares for ovulation. It also becomes firmer as hormone levels shift. These are normal changes during different phases of the cycle.
cervical changes throughout your cycle
Here’s a quick breakdown of how the cervix changes at different stages of your cycle:
1. follicular phase (before ovulation)
- Position: Low in the vagina.
- Texture: Firm, similar to the tip of a nose.
- Opening: Closed or slightly open.
2. ovulation (mid-cycle)
- Position: High in the vagina.
- Texture: Soft, like lips.
- Opening: Slightly open to allow sperm entry.
3. luteal phase (after ovulation)
- Position: Low again.
- Texture: Firmer.
- Opening: Closed.
4. menstruation (your period)
- Position: Low in the vagina.
- Texture: Firm.
- Opening: Open to allow menstrual flow.
faqs about menstrual discs
If you're using a menstrual disc like those offered by my mimi, you may have questions about how the cervix impacts their fit. Here are some common questions:
1. can i use a menstrual disc if my cervix is low during my period?
Yes! Menstrual discs are designed to fit around the cervix, even when it’s low. If your cervix is low, the disc should still work effectively by collecting menstrual blood.
2. how do i know if my menstrual disc is placed correctly?
Your disc should sit comfortably in your vaginal canal, just below the cervix. You shouldn’t feel it if it’s positioned correctly.
3. can my cervix affect my menstrual disc’s fit?
It can. If your cervix is unusually high or low, it might impact fit. Most people find discs from my mimi work well regardless of cervix position.
4. how long can i leave my menstrual disc in?
Discs can be worn for up to 12 hours, but if your cervix is low, check it regularly to ensure it’s secure.