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cervical mucous problems
Cervical mucous is the mucous produced by the woman’s cervix. During the woman’s fertile days around the time of ovulation, the cervical mucous is thin and watery in order to aid the passage of sperm into the womb. If the woman produces no cervical mucous, or too little, or the quality of the cervical mucous is poor, the sperm cells cannot pass through to fertilise the ovum.
symptoms
Cervical mucous problems are rarely apparent to women. A woman whose menstrual cycle is normal may notice an increase in healthy vaginal discharge half way through her cycle. However, this change in mucous is not always apparent to every woman who ovulates. In other words, if you are not aware of this change do not assume that you are affected.
Examination
A post-coital test (PCT) shows the quality of the cervical mucous and its role, if applicable, in the couple’s infertility problems.
cause
Cervical mucous problems are generally attributed to hormonal disturbances. Normal changes in the volume and structure of the mucous are the result of the increase in the female hormone oestrogen that usually accompanies ovulation (egg release). The cervical mucous is normally thin and watery around the time of ovulation. If the oestrogen balance is disturbed, the quality and consistency of the mucous can change. Infections or certain drug treatments can also affect the mucous.
treatment
A number of different treatment options are available. If investigation shows the mucous to be too acidic, it may be corrected by vaginal douches using a neutralising (sodium bicarbonate) solution. If the mucous still poses problems, Intra-Uterine Insemination (IUI) can be used. Using this assisted reproduction procedure; washed sperm are placed directly into the uterus with a plastic syringe. In this way, the cervix no longer impacts on the ability of the sperm to reach the uterus.
