Check Yourself! Cervical Exams at Ho

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Whole body health is important - and that includes “down there!”

Performing self-cervical exams is a great way to get in touch with your anatomy and understand more about your reproductive health. Knowing how to check your cervix is a window to learning about your fertility, menstrual cycle, and even labor progression.

Why Self-Cervical Exams?

Self examinations put the knowledge of your body back into your own hands. 

Our healthcare system often keeps people reliant on doctors for basic information about their bodies, but doing your own cervical checks helps you to take an active role in understanding what’s normal for you. 

This awareness can help with:

Fertility Tracking

Cervical position and cervical mucus change based on your cycle. Your cervix is higher and softer in your fertile window and releases a stretchy, egg-white-like mucus ideal for sperm survival and fertilization.

Pregnancy Changes

Toward the end of pregnancy, your cervix softens, moves lower, and may begin to dilate. Self-checks in labor can help you gauge how far along you might be.

Healthcare Decisions

When you know your anatomy, you’re in a better position to advocate for yourself in healthcare settings, making decisions that align with your needs.

How to Perform a Self-Cervical Exam

Don’t know where to start? No worries! A lot of women are unsure of how to navigate this part of their bodies at first.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to performing a cervical self-exam. It may feel a bit strange at first, but with practice, it can become a comfortable part of your routine.

  1. Prepare: Wash your hands thoroughly to avoid introducing any bacteria. Get into a comfortable position (such as sitting on the edge of a chair or squatting) where you can easily reach your cervix.

  2. Use Lubrication: A small amount of water-based lube on your fingers can make the process far more comfortable. Remember to stay relaxed and to not tense up!

  3. Insert Your Fingers: Insert two fingers (usually your index and middle fingers) slowly into your vagina. Feel for a round, firm structure towards the back, which might feel like the tip of your nose. If you’ve given birth before, it may feel slightly softer or have a small dimple in the center.

  4. Assess Cervical Position and Texture: During your cycle, you’ll notice changes in your cervix. When you’re fertile, it will feel soft, open, and may be higher. At other times, it may feel firmer, lower, and closed. As you practice over time, you will become familiar with these sensations and better understand the phases of your cycle.

If you’re ever unsure, it’s always okay to ask for help or guidance from a healthcare provider. Just remember that you are the most important decision-maker when it comes to your body and that checking yourself puts you in control of your healthcare journey!

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Want to support safer Ohio birth options and get a cool “Check Yourself” t-shirt? Visit us at the Buckeye Birth Coalition and grab yours!