How to Use Cervical Position to Determine Fertility

Whether you're attempting to get pregnant or using the rhythm method of birth control, knowing the location of your cervix during ovulation is an important skill. Many women feel awkward about touching their genitals, but there is nothing wrong with exploring parts of your own body. The following steps will help you successfully determine your cervical position during ovulation.

1. Wash your hands and your vagina before attempting to locate your cervix. This is important because the vagina is sensitive to bacteria which can lead to infections.

2. Lift one leg and place it on the edge of the tub or toilet. If this position is difficult or uncomfortable for you, you can lay down or squat. Any position that allows you to easily and consistently reach your cervix will be effective.

3. Slowly insert your fingers into your vagina until you feel the cervix. The cervix should protrude from your vaginal wall. It could be either tight and hard or open and soft. It is most likely located on the top of your vaginal wall, a few centimetres from the back of the vagina.

4. Make a mental note of the location and feel of your cervix. Is it high or low? Does it feel soft or hard? Does it seem to be opened or closed?

5. Repeat these steps every day or two, especially when you think you may be ovulating. It may take several times to understand and interpret what you are feeling, but eventually you will feel the difference in location and firmness. It may help to keep a daily chart if you're having a difficult time interpreting what you feel.

6. After you understand the changes in your cervix over the course of your cycle you can begin to use this information to either attempt or avoid pregnancy. When your cervix is low in the vagina and feels hard and closed, you are not fertile. You will be the most fertile when your cervix is high and soft. It may feel wider and spongy.

Following these steps should help you determine when you are fertile based on the location of your cervix.