You can simply use a finger to feel your cervix for signs of ovulation. It will change texture and position throughout your whole cycle! Ovulation becomes even clearer when cervix observations are coupled with daily basal body temperature, using a basal body thermometer (BBT), and cervical fluid (CF) patterns

How do I feel my cervix for signs of ovulation?

The cervical os (cervical opening) is located in the back of the vagina at the bottom of the uterus. Cervical mucus and menstrual blood flow out of this spot. The cervix is naturally somewhat low (about one finger-length inside the vagina) and has a hard texture, comparable to the tip of your nose or tongue.

During your menstrual cycle it will be very low, closed and dry without any cervical mucus present (you might notice vaginal cell slough). Leading up to ovulation, the cervix will become softer in texture and open up, allowing you to observe cervical fluid. This is your most fertile time! The cervix will lower back down and close again once ovulation has taken place.

Cervix Check Steps:

1. Always be sure to wash your hands very well before internally feeling your cervix for signs of ovulation. To emphasize, infection could easily be introduced to your reproductive system. Wait until yeast infections, or any other vaginal infections, are away before internally feeling your cervix.
2. Get comfy… Sit on the toilet, squat or put one leg up on the edge of the bathtub. Take a deep breath, you won’t hurt yourself.
3. Insert an index or middle finger into your vagina and slowly slide as far as your finger will go.
4. There it is!
5. Write down your observations – How far inside did your finger go? Did it feel hard, soft? Open, closed?

Feel your cervix for signs of ovulation at the same time each day for accurate observations. Also keep in mind that not all humans will follow the same pattern; each individual is unique. For those who have given birth, the cervix may be softer in general throughout each cycle, and the cervical os will have a slit opening rather than a circular opening.

Retroverted Uterus (Tilted or Tipped Uterus)

If your uterus tilts backwards (away from the bladder), rather than forwards, you may find that it is slightly tougher to feel your cervix as menstruation arrives.

• In most cases, a tilted uterus will not cause any issues during pregnancy
• Some may experience painful sex

Chart your cervix flow for at least 3 months to use as an accurate indicator for fertility charting.

The book Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler is an extremely comforting recourse filled with information and imagery to help you fully understand how to interpret your body’s signs.