Cervical mucus is a viscous and clear biological fluid synthesized by cervical canal epithelial cells . The biochemical composition and amount of this fluid changes during the menstrual cycle. For example, in the periovulatory period, secretory cells can synthesize up to 0.6 g of this fluid per day, while in the luteal phase only about 0.05 g is produced. Cervical mucus is a unique biological fluid that consists of complex proteins and carbohydrates (glycoproteins mucin type). This mucus can move due to the rhythmic contraction of microvilli, which are localized on epithelial cells. This type of movement of the microvilli ensures the removal of male gametes from the cervical canal, which are incapable of fertilization (fertilization). In addition, villi promote the movement of highly active sperm into the uterine cavity. It should be said that cervical mucus supports the vital activity of male gametes in the female genital organs. Why is this mucus so necessary for sperm? The fact is that they cannot live in the acidic environment of the vagina, and cervical mucus has an alkaline reaction that protects the germ cells from death.
Due to the action of progesterone, cervical fluid changes its biochemical composition. Also, the composition of mucus can significantly change when exposed to a variety of modulators, such as estrogens, prostaglandins and relaxin. The possibility of conception depends on the consistency (viscosity) of cervical mucus. If the fluid has a viscous consistency or is insufficient, fertilization is most likely not to occur. To date, the effect of modulators on the stroma and muscle layer of the uterus has been most deeply studied. It is known that some prostoglandins contribute to the relaxation of the cervix, others to the reduction of stromal myocytes and muscle layer. Relaxin takes part in the opening of her neck in the preovulatory period.
The researchers found that cervical mucus changes during the menstrual cycle. Therefore, there are several types of cervical fluid produced at different periods of the menstrual cycle. After menstruation, there is practically no or too little mucus. The vaginal mucosa is dry. During this period, the probability of fertilization is minimal. Many experts call these days “dry.” After a while (3-4 days), the nature of the cervical fluid changes, it becomes more viscous and resembles glue. Male gametes cannot exist in such mucus, however, the probability of fertilization increases, especially when such a fluid is synthesized shortly before ovulation. After this, the mucus liquefies, its consistency resembles a thick cream. This liquid may be white, unclear or with a yellowish tint. During the indicated period of the menstrual cycle, a sensation of moisture occurs in the vagina, traces of secretions can be found on the underwear. Such mucus supports the vital activity of sperm, and also contributes to their promotion. During this period, it is best to refrain from sexual intercourse. Before ovulation, during ovulation, and also after it, the cervical fluid acquires a watery consistency that resembles egg white. As a rule, it is very viscous and transparent. This mucus can be stretched a few centimeters. Abundant secretions are released from the vagina, which leave wet spots on the underwear. This type of cervical fluid is most favorable for the promotion, vital activity of spermatozoa, and, of course, for fertilization. These days, it’s better not to have sex.