During menstruation, the cervix undergoes a few changes: it typically sits lower in the vagina, feels harder to the touch, and is slightly open to allow menstrual blood to flow out of the uterus.
Here's a breakdown of the changes:
- Position: The cervix descends slightly, sitting lower within the vaginal canal than at other times in your cycle.
- Texture: It tends to feel firmer or harder, often described as feeling like the tip of your nose.
- Opening (Os): The cervical os, the opening of the cervix, widens slightly. This dilation is necessary for the passage of menstrual blood, tissue, and uterine lining from the uterus, through the cervix, and into the vagina.
It's important to remember that individual experiences can vary. While these are general changes, the exact position and feel of your cervix can differ slightly from person to person and even from cycle to cycle. Regularly checking your cervical position and feel can help you become more familiar with your own body's normal patterns. This practice is often used in fertility awareness methods.
In summary, when menstruating, the cervix lowers, hardens, and slightly opens to facilitate the shedding of the uterine lining.
