There may be an increase in cervical discharge when a period is missed, which can serve as an indication of pregnancy. Many alterations can take place in the cervical mucus during the initial stages of pregnancy.1 A lot of women rely on these modifications to determine if they are pregnant even before taking a home pregnancy test.
Hormonal fluctuations are responsible for the changes in cervical mucus.2 Physical transformations, like variations in the texture and placement of the cervix, can impact the cervical mucus as well.
To discover more about examining cervical mucus and the significance of color changes in it, read this post ‘What is Cervical Mucus In Early Pregnancy?‘.
What Is Cervical Mucus?
Cervical Mucus is a liquid produced by the glands in and around the cervix. It is also known as leucorrhea, a term used to describe any vaginal discharge.3 The purpose of cervical mucus is to lubricate, cleanse, and nourish the vaginal area.
Fluctuations in hormones during the menstrual cycle impact the quantity and texture of this mucus, making it a reliable indicator of ovulation and fertility.
What is the appearance of cervical mucus during the early stages of pregnancy?
In the beginning stages of pregnancy, cervical mucus may appear creamy or gummy. During the time of a missed period, there is typically an increase in vaginal discharge, often seen as a potential indication of pregnancy.
The higher levels of estrogen in the body can stimulate increased blood flow to the pelvic area, leading to a greater production of mucus.
Does Cervical Mucus Change when Pregnant?
Yes, the consistency of cervical mucus alters during pregnancy. The amount of discharge typically rises in the initial three months and transforms into the mucus plug that acts as a barrier to protect the baby from infections by sealing the cervical opening.
As the delivery approaches, the mucus plug disintegrates and is released in the form of either sizable clumps or tiny pieces.
How Can You Check Cervical Mucus?
Monitoring your menstrual cycle allows you to keep track of ovulation days, allowing you to also observe cervical mucus changes in early pregnancy.4 Below are some methods for checking:
- Using toilet tissue: Before peeing, use white toilet paper to clean your vaginal area. Examine the color, texture, and thickness of the discharge coming from the vagina.
- Check your panty: This is a straightforward way to inspect for any discharge on your undergarments. It typically intensifies as ovulation approaches, however, it may not always be reliable.
- Using your finger: This is the most accurate technique. Clean your hands with soap and water. Place two fingers inside the vagina and then take them out. The stickiness, color, and texture of the discharge can be observed.
To examine the cervical mucus in early pregnancy, it is important to have an understanding of how its texture shifts throughout the typical menstrual cycle.
- There is no color and it is nearly dry: This occurs the day after your menstrual period ends.
- Thick and cloudy: This occurs one week after entering the menstrual cycle, nearing ovulation.
- During ovulation, cervical mucus becomes sticky, plentiful, and elastic, making it an optimal time for conception.
- During the third week of the menstrual cycle, the consistency of cervical mucus typically becomes cloudy, sticky, and thick, which can indicate whether fertilization has occurred.
What Does Pink Or Brown Cervical Discharge Indicate?
Pink or brown discharge from the vagina may happen in the initial phases of pregnancy, usually between six to 12 days after conception. This happens due to implantation bleeding, which takes place when the embryo attaches to the uterine wall. It is also possible to experience no spotting during implantation.
What would happen if you observe a rise in discharge before your period starts?
If you observe a greater amount of discharge before your period or following ovulation, this could indicate that you are pregnant.5
If the discharge is transparent and liquid, it indicates that your body is getting ready for menstruation. However, if the discharge is dense or smooth, it may signify pregnancy as clear or dry discharge is uncommon at the beginning of pregnancy.
Multiple alterations can happen in the cervical mucus in the early stages of pregnancy due to hormonal changes. Therefore, if you suspect you might be pregnant, examine the color, consistency, and texture of your cervical mucus either with tissues or your fingertips. The mucus might appear sticky or creamy, and there could be an increase in vaginal discharge.
Nonetheless, variations in cervical mucus should not be solely relied upon as a definitive indication of pregnancy. In case your period is late, look for other pregnancy symptoms and conduct a pregnancy test for an accurate outcome. It is vital to prioritize reproductive health, and if there is a suspicion of pregnancy, seeking medical advice is crucial.
Key Pointers of ‘What is Cervical Mucus In Early Pregnancy?’
- During the early stages of pregnancy, there is an increase in the production of cervical mucus, which surrounds the cervix. As pregnancy progresses, this mucus takes on the form of a plug.
- This increase in cervical mucus production may be attributed to a rise in hormonal levels, particularly estrogen.
- The presence of a pink or brown-colored discharge from the cervix could be a sign of embryo implantation in the uterine wall.
- While a thick cervical mucus is one indication of early pregnancy, it is not the only reliable one. It is important to also watch for other symptoms like morning sickness and sensitive breasts.
