Currently, many circulating tools to predict the fertile period. This is certainly very helpful for you and your partner who is planning a pregnancy. However, did you know that the fertile period can be known in a natural way, namely through cervical mucus?
Cervical mucus is a fluid that is produced by the cervix and flows into the vaginal area. The shape and texture of cervical mucus generally varies. This is influenced by hormonal changes that women experience during ovulation or the fertile period and menstrual cycle.
When does the fertile period last?
The fertile period or ovulation is the process of releasing eggs from the ovaries or ovaries into the fallopian tubes. In order to create a pregnancy, the egg that is released during ovulation must be fertilized by a sperm. After fertilization, the egg will develop into a fetus or embryo.
The fertile period or ovulation generally occurs about 2 weeks before the first day of the next menstruation begins. For couples who are planning a pregnancy, the fertile period is the right time to have sex.
Characteristics of Cervical Mucus During Fertile Period
Throughout the menstrual cycle, a woman's body will experience hormonal changes. This will later affect the female reproductive organs, as well as the amount and texture of cervical mucus produced.
As the fertile period approaches, the hormone estrogen in a woman's body will increase and make the cervix secrete more mucus.
Cervical mucus produced during the fertile period will appear clear white like egg white, and has a slippery texture and is more sticky. The texture of cervical mucus like this is very good for carrying sperm to move towards the egg.
Checking Cervical Mucus during Fertile Period
You can find out when you are fertile by checking cervical mucus. The trick, wash your hands first until clean. Next, slowly insert the index and middle fingers into the vagina until they reach the cervix.
After that, remove your fingers and try to observe the texture and color of the mucus sticking to your fingers.
You can also check cervical mucus by using toilet paper. The trick is to wipe toilet paper in the vagina, then observe the cervical mucus contained in the tissue.
In addition to the two methods above, you can also check cervical mucus by observing the texture and color of mucus stuck to the underwear. You can use dark underwear, so the mucus is easier to see.
Not only changes in cervical mucus, women who are in their fertile period will also usually experience other signs and symptoms, such as changes in basal body temperature (normal body temperature when not doing any activity), pain in the abdomen and back, to larger breasts. sensitive.
If you're still confused, you can use various other ways to determine your fertile period, such as using the calendar method to calculate your fertile period or a fertility detection device that uses a urine sample.
You can also consult directly with a gynecologist to find out when you are fertile, especially if you and your partner are planning a pregnancy.