Cervical mucus is a normal viscous secretion produced by glands located on the cervix. What is it used for, during ovulation or before menstruation? What to do when it turns yellow, brown or thick?
What is cervical mucus?
Under the influence of estrogens, the vagina produces secretions from puberty. These vaginal discharges take on the appearance of viscous cream-colored substance. They are produced at the level of the cervix. They are different from the fluids secreted during female ejaculation : it is then a flow of a small quantity of whitish liquid, produced by glands located on either side of the urethra (external part of the conduit of the urinary system) and called Skene glands, or paraurethral glands.
What is the role of cervical mucus?
“Cervical mucus constitutes a protective shield for the uterus : it balances the vaginal flora by naturally cleaning the inside of the vagina by expelling pathogens and impurities, it lubricates the vagina during sexual intercourse to allow penetration and plays a key role in the procreation process since, depending on its appearance , it can promote the circulation of sperm to the egg or prevent access to it“, indicates Dr Christelle Besnard-Charvet, gynecologist.
What is the normal appearance of cervical mucus?
Cervical mucus is viscous, cream-colored and has no odor.
Yellow cervical mucus: why?
Naturally, the discharge changes color before menstruation and takes on a yellow tint and becomes a little thicker. It is a defense process to prevent the passage of sperm. On the other hand, if this change in appearance is accompanied by a bad smell, itching or burning, it may be a sign of an infection. Make an appointment with your doctor.
Liquid cervical mucus: why?
As the ovulation period approaches, the cervical mucus takes on a more liquid appearance. This is to allow the sperm to move more quickly through the cervix and reach the egg more easily.
White and pasty cervical mucus: why?
Again, this is to block the passage of sperm. It is thick, and a little sticky.
Cervical mucus with blood: why?
As soon as there is blood, you must consult. “Most often, it involves metrorrhagia (small losses of blood outside periods) linked to ovulation (drop in hormones which triggers mini-periods), explains Dr. Besnard-Charvet. But it may be a more alarming sign (cervical injury). A consultation is essential“
Brown or pinkish cervical mucus: why?
Brown or brown-colored discharge corresponds to the evacuation of old blood through the genital tract. This is cervical mucus mixed with old blood (which is therefore no longer red, but brown because it has oxidized in the body). In women without contraception, it may simply be a symptom of ovulation. “In those who use hormonal contraception, this brown discharge can occur following improper use (forgetting the pill for example) or a hormonal imbalance.“, specifies Dr. Besnard-Charvet. They can also be a sign of irritation of the cervix, pelvic inflammation, a polyp or other uterine pathology. After 45 years, they may be a sign of premenopause.
Acidic cervical mucus
Cervical mucus has a pH between 6 and 8.5, the ideal being between 7 and 8.5. A pH between 6 and 7 does not make fertilization impossible. Acidic cervical mucus, pH less than 6, may be linked to an infection. It harms fertilization and must be taken into account if you want to become pregnant.
Cervical mucus during ovulation
Depending on the time of the cycle, cervical mucus may change in appearance. During ovulation, it becomes more liquid: this consistency aims to promote the movement of sperm to the egg, in order to allow fertilization. When the fertilization period has passed, the mucus becomes thicker, this time preventing the progression of sperm.
Cervical mucus in case of pregnancy
Hormonal changes (increases in estrogen and progesterone levels) lead to changes in cervical mucus: progesterone will cause it to thicken, which will help to form the mucous plug which seals the cervix and has the function of protecting the future baby from vaginal bacteria; estrogen will help to increase its quantity, in order to regularly clean the vagina. During pregnancy, they may turn slightly brown. “These losses correspond, quite simply, to the elimination of blood resulting from a slight lack of attachment of the egg to the uterine wall.“, reassures Dr. Besnard-Charvet.
This happens during the first three months. However, it is better to talk to your gynecologist so that he can rule out the possibility of a complication, particularly if these losses are accompanied by pain.
Thanks to Dr Christelle Besnard-Charvet, gynecologist.