The Cervix

When you're pregnant, your body is doing all kinds of phenomenal things, and one part that deserves the spotlight is your cervix! You might not think much about it pre-pregnant, but this small and mighty part of your anatomy plays a huge role in your journey into motherhood; lets break it down and learn together!  

What Is the Cervix?

The cervix is the lower part of your uterus that connects to your vagina. Think of it as a tiny gateway. Before pregnancy, it’s firm, closed, and about the size of a small doughnut. It has a central opening called the cervical canal, which is tightly sealed by mucus to keep out unwanted bacteria.  

Before Pregnancy Cervix

Before you’re pregnant, your cervix is:  

• Firm and closed: It’s like the tip of your nose, sturdy and protective.  
• Low in your vaginal canal. This varies with your menstrual cycle, but generally, it’s easy to find.  
• There to protect: It acts as a barrier to keep the uterus safe from infections and helps manage your menstrual flow.   

During Pregnancy: The Cervix Takes on New Roles

Once you’re pregnant, the cervix undergoes some big changes:   

• Softening: Hormones like progesterone make it softer to prepare for the work it’ll do during labor.  
• Forming a mucus plug: Your cervix creates a thick, sticky barrier to seal your uterus and protect your baby from infections. (Fun fact: You might notice this "plug" coming out as your due date gets closer!) .
• Rising higher: The cervix shifts upward and becomes harder to reach.  

These changes help your body keep your baby safe and snug in your uterus.  

Going Into Labour: The Cervix Steps Into the Spotlight

When it’s time to give birth, your cervix is the star of the show. Here's what happens:  

• Effacement: This means your cervix thins out, going from thick and long to paper-thin. Think of a tightly folded napkin being stretched out flat. Effacement is measured in percentages (e.g., 50% effaced means halfway thinned out).  
• Dilation: Your cervix opens to make way for your baby. It starts at 0 cm and gradually stretches to 10 cm — roughly the size of a bagel!  
• The Mucus Plug Is Released:As your cervix opens, you may lose your mucus plug, which can look like a glob of jelly or thick discharge (sometimes tinged with blood). This is a sign your body is getting ready!
• Baby’s Grand Exit or Entrance to the world: Once you’re fully dilated and effaced, the cervix is out of the way, and your baby can move through the birth canal.  

Why Is the Cervix So Important?

Your cervix isn’t just a passive bystander. It plays a *huge* role in:  

• Protecting your baby during pregnancy.
• Signalling labour is starting.
• Helping your baby make their way into the world.

Understanding these changes can help you feel more connected to your body and confident about the amazing process it’s going through.  

Your cervix may be small, but it has a big job. Whether it’s keeping your baby safe during pregnancy or opening the way for birth, your cervix deserves some appreciation. So next time you hear your doctor or midwife mention “effacement” or “dilation,” you’ll know exactly what they’re talking about—and why it matters.  

Your body is incredible, and your cervix is proof of that! 

If you are still unsure of any of the above and fancy a chat with us midwives - book in a call with us, its free but there can be limited availability so book in early to avoid disappointment:

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