Livmoderhalsslem

Livmoderhalsslem, also known as cervical mucus, is a fluid secreted by glands in the cervix, the lower, narrow part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. This mucus plays a crucial role in female reproductive health and fertility. Its consistency, amount, and characteristics change significantly throughout the menstrual cycle, largely influenced by fluctuating hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone.

During the fertile window, around ovulation, estrogen levels rise, causing the cervical mucus to become thinner, more abundant, and clearer, resembling raw egg white. This type of mucus is more permeable, facilitating the transport of sperm through the cervix and into the uterus, thereby increasing the chances of conception. It also helps to nourish and protect sperm.

In the latter half of the menstrual cycle, after ovulation, progesterone levels increase. This hormonal shift causes the cervical mucus to become thicker, more opaque, and less abundant. This thicker mucus forms a plug that can help prevent bacteria and other pathogens from entering the uterus, offering a protective barrier.

The characteristics of cervical mucus are often monitored by women as a natural family planning method, known as the symptothermal method. By observing changes in mucus texture and quantity, along with basal body temperature, women can identify their fertile days and infer ovulation. Variations in cervical mucus can also sometimes indicate underlying health conditions or hormonal imbalances, making it a subject of interest in gynecological health.