It can certainly help. The cervix – the lower part of the uterus that connects the womb to the vagina – will change in many ways throughout the menstrual cycle, and tracking these changes can help you determine when you might be fertile, and ovulating.
How does the fertile cervical position change throughout the menstrual cycle?
As you progress throughout your menstrual cycle, your cervix will undergo changes in position and texture, and the internal os – the opening to your uterus – will open or close depending on the cycle phase.
Menstrual
During the menstrual phase, your os will remain slightly open in order to allow for menstrual blood to flow from your uterine lining, and your cervix will remain relatively lower in your vagina, as well as being firm to the touch.
Proliferative
After you stop menstruating, the internal os will close, cutting off the passageway between your vagina and uterus. Your cervix will begin as firm and low in the proliferative phase, but will rise, and become softer and more moist (just like your cervical fluid) as you approach the fertile window and ovulation. Tracking your cervical position during the proliferative phase can really help you determine when the fertile window is approaching.
Fertile window
When you are fertile, your cervix will rise in your vagina, and become even more soft and moist than it was during the proliferative phase. Your internal os will also open in order to allow sperm cells to travel to your fallopian tubes and waiting egg. The cervix may become so soft and high that you can’t reach it with your finger, and if you do, may seem to blend in with the rest of your vagina. You are probably at your peak fertility when your cervix is at its highest position, and softest.
Luteal phase
In the days after you ovulate, your cervix will move down once again in your vagina, and the internal os will close. Your cervix will also become more firm and distinguishable. If you do not conceive in a cycle, your cervix will transition back to its low, firm menstrual state. However, if you do conceive, you will likely notice your cervix remaining high and soft, though with a closed internal os.
How do I check my cervical position?
There are a few different ways to check your cervical position, but regardless of the technique you use, you should always make sure to wash your hands, and keep your nails trimmed before inserting a finger in your vagina. Some women prefer squatting when checking their cervical position, but most will raise one leg up on to the bathtub ledge or toilet, before inserting a finger into the vagina to check for cervical position, texture, and moistness.
You should keep track of the way your cervix changes throughout the cycle in order to best predict when you might be fertile.
