Utilizing Cervical Mucus as a Natural Method of Contraception

During fertility, a woman's body gives several visible signals. One of the signals is visible in changes in cervical mucus. Changes in texture and color of cervical mucus can then be used as a source of information for natural contraceptive methods. 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 to plan or avoid pregnancy, because this organ is a channel that produces cervical mucus that will help carry sperm into the egg.

Changes in the texture of cervical mucus

To check the texture of cervical mucus can be done by inserting a clean finger into the vagina to reach the cervix, or wipe the intimate area using toilet paper. In addition, cervical mucus may also be seen in the underwear that is used. To check the texture of mucus, spread between two fingers. In addition to texture, cervical mucus can also be recognized by its color.

• Before the fertile period

The cervix does not secrete mucous so that a woman will feel dry in her intimate organs.

• Fertile time

At the beginning of a woman's fertile period, cervical mucus is white or cream with a somewhat thick and slippery texture, but easily breaks when stretched between two fingers. During optimal fertility, cervical mucus will appear thinner and more liquid with a greater amount. Can be marked with a clear color or dripping between fingers as egg white. This texture is best in supporting pregnancy, because it will help sperm move toward the uterus.

• After the fertile period

At this time, cervical mucus is no longer wet or slippery, but has a thick texture and feels like a lotion with milky white or yellowish color. The closer to the menstrual period, the cervical mucus will be more sticky which will make it difficult for sperm to move toward the egg in the uterus.

The Natural Contraception Method by Observing Cervical Mucus

By observing cervical mucus patterns between menstrual cycles, the couple can determine when the right time to have sex to plan or avoid pregnancy. For couples planning a pregnancy, have intercourse during the fertile period that is known from the texture of thin and liquid cervical mucus. Instead, avoid these periods to have sex without contraception for couples who want to avoid pregnancy. One of the weaknesses of the cervical mucus method for contraception is the carefulness of checking cervical mucus and refraining from unprotected sexual intercourse at certain times. This method also cannot prevent sexually transmitted infections. In addition, some women may feel strange or uncomfortable to do cervical mucus checks. Meanwhile, the advantage of using cervical mucus as a method of contraception is the minimal risk to health. If done properly, 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 does not require tools or special costs. For the success of the contraceptive method using cervical mucus, check it carefully. If necessary, observe the cervical mucus pattern several months before actually using this as a method of contraception. Consult your general practitioner or obstetrician for more information.