Cervical mucus - where is it synthesized?

Cervical mucus is a viscous and transparent biological fluid synthesized by the epitheliocytes of the cervical canal. The biochemical composition and amount of this fluid changes during the menstrual cycle. For example, in the period of the period of secretion, secretory cells can synthesize up to 0.6 g of this liquid per day, whereas in the luteal phase only about 0.05 g is produced. Cervical mucus is a unique biological fluid that consists of complex proteins and carbohydrates (glycoproteins Mucin type). This mucus can move due to a rhythmic contraction of microvilli, which are localized to epithelial cells. This type of movement of microvilli provides removal of male gametes from the cervical canal, which are unable to fertilize (fertilization). In addition, villi provide the promotion of highly active spermatozoa in the uterine cavity. It should be said that cervical mucus supports the activity of male gametes located in female genital organs. Why is this mucus so necessary for sperm? The fact is that they can not live in the acidic environment of the vagina, and cervical mucus has an alkaline reaction that protects the sex cells from death.

Due to the action of progesterone, the cervical fluid changes its biochemical composition. Also, the composition of mucus can change significantly when exposed to a variety of modulators, such as estrogens, prostaglandins and relaxin. The possibility of conception depends on the consistency (viscosity) of the cervical mucus. If the liquid has a viscous consistency or is not enough, fertilization will most likely not occur. Today, the influence of modulators on the stroma and the muscular layer of the uterus has been most thoroughly studied. It is known that some prostaglandins contribute to relaxation of the cervix, others - to contraction of stroma and muscle myocytes. Relaxin takes part in the disclosure of its cervix during the preovulant period.

Researchers found that cervical mucus changes during the menstrual cycle. Therefore, several types of cervical fluid, developed at different periods of the cycle of menstruation, are distinguished. After menstruation, mucus is almost none or too small. The mucous membrane of the vagina is dry. During this period the probability of fertilization is minimal. Many specialists these days are called "dry". After a while (3-4 days) the nature of the cervical fluid changes it to become more viscous and resembles glue. In such slime, male gametes can not exist, but the probability of fertilization increases, especially at a time when such a liquid is synthesized shortly before ovulation. After that, the mucus is diluted, its consistency resembles a thick cream. This liquid may be white, cloudy or with a yellowish tinge. In this period of the menstrual cycle, a sensation of moisture appears in the vagina, and traces of discharge can be found on the underwear. Such mucus supports the vital activity of spermatozoa, and also promotes their progress. In this period it is best to refrain from sexual intercourse. Before ovulation, during ovulation, and also after it, the cervical fluid acquires a watery consistency that resembles egg white. As a rule, it is very viscous and transparent. This mucus can be stretched for a few centimeters. From the vagina there are abundant secretions that leave wet spots on the underwear. This type of cervical fluid is most favorable for the promotion, vital activity of spermatozoa, and, of course, for fertilization. These days it is better not to engage in sexual activity.