What Is Cervical Mucus?

Cervical mucus is a fluid produced when hormonal changes stimulate the glands in your cervix. These hormones shift throughout your cycle, causing the texture of your cervical mucus to change depending on which phase you're in. You'll usually notice it as discharge in your underwear. 

What Does Cervical Mucus Do?

Cervical mucus has two main jobs. The first is to help sperm move through the cervix and reach the egg during ovulation. At this stage, it becomes wet and slippery to make that journey easier. Why? Imagine sperm trying to swim upstream in a river. If the water is thick and slow, it's hard to make progress. When the current is clear and flowing smoothly, like fertile cervical mucus, it helps them reach the egg more easily. 

The second job is to act as a barrier. Cervical mucus helps block sperm or other substances from entering the cervix when conditions are not right for fertilization. Simply put, when you're not ovulating it plays a protective role in your reproductive system. 

Stages of Cervical Mucus

Everyone's cycle is different, and so is the amount, color, and consistency of cervical mucus you might notice. The discharge is generally odourless. If it's foul-smelling, it could mean you have an infection and it's wise to contact your doctor for a consultation. 

Here's how it can change throughout your cycle: 

• During your period: Blood usually covers the mucus, so you likely won't notice it. 
• After your period: You may have a few dry days with little or no discharge.
• Leading up to your ovulation: As your body prepares to release an egg, you may notice yellow, white, or cloudy mucus. It can be sticky, glue-like, or start to become stretchy.
• Right before ovulation: Estrogen levels rise, and mucus becomes clear, slippery, stretchy, and wet. It often looks like raw egg whites. 
• During ovulation: This egg-white consistency continues and creates a sperm-friendly environment. If you're trying to conceive, this is your most fertile window. 
• After ovulation: Discharge often becomes thicker or cloudier. You might experience dry days again. 

Birth Control and Cervical Mucus

If you're using birth control pills or have an IUD, these methods can change the appearance and function of your cervical mucus. They work in part by thickening the mucus, which makes it harder for sperm to reach the egg. Because of this, your cervical mucus may not follow the same patterns described above. 

Keep Track in Cycles

Cycles can help you chart your cervical mucus and better understand what cycle phase you're in. Tracking discharge gives you insight into when you're most fertile or ovulating, which can be helpful if you're trying to get pregnant. 

Download Cycles in the App Store today and start tracking your cervical mucus patterns. Follow us on Instagram @cyclesapp for more reproductive health tips!