Cervical mucus before period aids the sperm to reach its goal, to fertilize the awaiting egg. Cervical mucus helps the sperm travel toward the egg, and provides essential nutrients along the way. On the flip side, cervical mucus at the early stages of the cycle prevent sperm motility and create a block to the cervix.
Cervical mucus changes throughout a woman's menstrual cycle. This is important to note, as these changes can signify the peak time of fertility. Whether you are trying to conceive or trying to avoid a pregnancy, understanding the variances of cervical mucus can be of benefit. Differences in color, amount and consistency may change throughout your menstrual cycle.
What is it really?
Your mucus produces mucus, an egg-white colored semi-fluid that is naturally secreted by a woman’s reproductive system. This fluid plays a very important role in the conception of a human baby.
The cervival mucus before period traps the sperm in the uterus, and stores them for up to six days. This is why you can still get pregnant six days after you had sex.
The cervical mucus helps the egg be fertilized, and it also enhances the chances of successful conception. But a lot of women are still concerned about the cervical mucus before period. Which is why we will talk about it further.
The initial stage of the cycle, closest to the time of menstruation, starts with sticky, scant mucus. It is usually somewhat thick in consistency. The thickness of this mucus blocks the cervix and can prevent sperm from traveling through to the Fallopian tubes. This means that the opportunity for fertilization of an egg is extremely limited.
The mucus changes as you being the ovulatory stage of your menstrual cycle, or, the ideal time for you to conceive. As this time approaches, you will notice that the fluid increases and becomes thinner, similar to the consistency of raw egg whites. You may even see or feel it on your underwear.
You should be able to stretch the mucus between two of your fingers. This is a great sign that you are approaching the time of ovulation. The volume of the fluid may be abundant, but should not cause you any unease or concern.
If you are trying to conceive, checking your cervical mucus may be helpful, but you should do so prior to sexual intercourse or arousal, since these time periods may include other fluids that can affect the consistency of cervical mucus. You may also need to reach up to the cervix to retrieve the fluid, if there is currently no flow to the vagina.
Advice!
Cervical mucus before period that appears on your underwear is normal, and you should not be alarmed at its volume or consistency.
Cervical Mucus and Your Menstrual Cycle
| Menstrual Cycle Timing | Cervical Mucus Consistency and Volume | Fertility Level Expected |
|---|---|---|
| Beginning of Cycle, Post Menstruation. | Sticky Feel. Light Flow. Opaque in Color. | Low. Conception Not Likely. |
| Mid Cycle, Early. | Thinner. Clearing. | Conception Not Likely. |
| Mid Cycle, Peak. | Heavy flow. Clear/Raw Egg Whites. Stretchy/Elastic. | Conception Highly Likely. |
| End of Cycle. | Tapering Off. Opaque. | Conception Unlikely. |
Note!
It should be noted that no matter what the consistency of cervical mucus, unprotected sexual intercourse can still lead to conception. Cervical mucus and its consistency and volume are mere indicators of the timing of your cycle. Cervical mucus provides an environment for sperm to travel to the egg for fertilization, but the egg must be present for conception to occur.
Cervical Mucus Before Period and Its Added Benefit
While recognizing that the variances in cervical mucus can help guide you through your reproductive cycle, cervical fluid has an additional benefit. Cervical mucus provides a protective barrier against bad bacteria, keeping your vagina and reproductive system in optimal health.
The acidity in the mucus can protect you against diseases like bacterial vaginosis or cervicitis. As cervical mucus works its way down the vaginal canal, it may carry away stray bacteria, viruses, and sperm. This natural cleansing of the vagina means that there is no need for women to douche or introduce chemicals into the vagina to clean this delicate area. Cervical mucus does the work for you!
When Cervical Mucus Before Period Signifies "Something Else". When to Call Your Physician
While cervical mucus is typically normal and healthy, there may be times when the mucus can signify a problem with your reproductive or vaginal health. If you experience a strong, unpleasant odor, itching or pain, or mucus that is discolored or white, you should consult with your doctor or health care provider as soon as possible.
These changes may indicate a vaginal infection, a sexually transmitted disease such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, or in rare cases, it may even signify uterine or cervical cancer. A blood stained or pink discharge may be a symptom of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
Hostile Cervical Mucus
Though uncommon, some women can produce cervical mucus that is not conducive to pregnancy. When a woman's cervical mucus is not healthy, it is considered “hostile” and it can become difficult for her to conceive.
Hostile cervical mucus can be caused by a variety of sources, including prescription medications such as Clomid, an inappropriate diet, and lack of water consumption. A hostile environment can also be produced by excessive utilization of antihistamines.
Hostile cervical mucus can often be overcome by improvements to the diet and additional water consumption, utilization of a Guaifenesin, such as Robitussin, or a decrease in the consumption of dairy products, sugar or artificially sweetened foods, and acidic foods.
Sperm-friendly lubricants may also be of some benefit to cervical mucus improvement. Be cautious of inappropriate recommendations you may encounter on the internet. Some women, in their quest for healthier mucus, have even attempted to insert egg whites into the vaginal canal. This is not only of no real benefit, but is an unsanitary practice that can lead to additional problems.
In Closing
Now that you have an understanding of cervical mucus before period the role it plays in your fertility and reproductive health, you can use this knowledge to your advantage. While cervical mucus is only part of the story of conception, observing the changes in your mucus levels and its consistency may help you on your journey to build a family, or help to avoid an unwanted pregnancy.
Accepting that cervical mucus is part of a normal, healthy reproductive system can contribute to your health and overall well-being. Learning to identify the differing stages of your healthy cervical mucus is even better!
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