ABSTRACT
During the menstrual cycle the cervix goes through a series of changes in its level, position, consistency and dilatation. Many women who check secretions are aware of their cervix and its changes. These changes may be of particular value to women in circumstances where ovulation is delayed: for example, women with very long cycles, postpartum and during the perimenopausal years. Women who are planning pregnancy do not need to check their cervix, but those who are avoiding pregnancy can use cervical changes in conjunction with other fertility indicators to provide an effective method of family planning. Cervical changes are optional and some women will not wish to check their cervix for a variety of reasons – personal, religious or cultural.
