During the fertile period, a woman's body gives several visible signals. One of the signals seen in changes in cervical mucus. Changes in the texture and color of cervical mucus can then be used as a source of information on natural contraceptive methods.
The cervix or also often called the cervix is at the bottom of the uterus, has a cylindrical shape with a length of about 4 centimeters. The cervix has an important role in planning or avoiding pregnancy, because this organ is the channel that produces cervical mucus which will help carry sperm to the egg.
Texture Change Cervical Mucus
To check the texture of cervical mucus can be done by inserting a clean finger into the vagina until it reaches the cervix, or wipe the intimate area using toilet paper. In addition, cervical mucus may also appear on the underwear used. To check the texture of the mucus, spread it between two fingers. In addition to texture, cervical mucus can also be recognized by its color.
Changes in the texture of cervical mucus as a feature of the fertile period can be recognized from several phases, namely:
- Before fertile period
The cervix does not secrete mucus so a woman will feel dry in her intimate organs.
- time sjellyfishAt the beginning of a woman's fertile period, cervical mucus is white or cream in color with a slightly thick and slippery texture, but breaks easily when stretched between two fingers. When the fertile period is optimal, cervical mucus will appear thinner and watery with greater amounts. Can be characterized by a clear color or dripping between the fingers like egg whites. This texture is best in supporting pregnancy, because it will help sperm move towards the uterus.
- After fertile periodAt this time, cervical mucus is no longer wet or slippery, but has a thick texture and feels like a lotion with a milky white or yellowish color. The closer to menstruation, the cervical mucus will be more sticky which will make it difficult for sperm to move to the egg in the uterus.
Natural Contraceptive Method by Observing Cervical Mucus
By observing the pattern of cervical mucus between menstrual cycles, couples can determine when is the right time to have sex to plan or avoid pregnancy.
For couples who are planning a pregnancy, have sex during the fertile period that is known from the texture of the cervical mucus is thin and watery. On the other hand, avoid these times to have sex without contraception for couples who want to avoid pregnancy.
One of the disadvantages of the cervical mucus method for contraception is that it is careful to check cervical mucus and refrain from having unprotected sex at certain times. This method also cannot prevent sexually transmitted infections. In addition, some women may find it strange or uncomfortable to check cervical mucus.
Meanwhile, the advantage of using cervical mucus as a contraceptive method is the minimal risk to health. If done correctly, the success rate is quite high, only about 3 pregnant women out of 100 women who use cervical mucus as a natural contraceptive method. Also, this method is inexpensive because it requires no special tools or costs.
For the success of the contraceptive method using cervical mucus, check carefully. If necessary, observe the pattern of cervical mucus several months before actually using this as a method of contraception. Consult a general practitioner or obstetrician for more information.
