Hi, girls! Anyone who is trying to conceive knows: we have our own tricks and strategies. But you might wonder: “Is Famivita going crazy?”. No, it’s true. Many women are continually observing their own bodies, either as a way to detect a possible pregnancy or to understand if menstruation is about to start.
We know the world of those trying to conceive is full of information and, of course, we want to keep up with everything, right? That’s why we’re bringing you content that’s a bit different, but always reminding you that this is just for curiosity’s sake, since some procedures are very specific and only done by doctors, even though many women venture to try to get a satisfactory result.
In this sense, the word is caution, because, as we often say here, safety and health come first. Let’s go!
Swab Test
In this test, women use a cotton swab. But for what? Here’s how it goes: with freshly washed and clean hands, they insert the swab into the vaginal canal and then check the color and consistency of the discharge on the cotton tip.
The thing is, usually, as menstruation approaches, the swab would come out with a pinkish, brown, or even red hue. On the other hand, if it comes out clean and white or dry, it’s a sign that your period isn’t coming soon. Since there’s always a lot of anxiety around menstruation, many women see this as a way to know if their period is on the way or if there’s no sign of it at all.
Cervix Test
Gynecologists usually do a similar test with patients, but in the office and with the appropriate tools. The goal would be, through touching the cervix1, to get an idea if the woman is pregnant or not.
The thing is, this procedure requires a lot of care, since the vagina is a sensitive place and bacteria can grow easily. To prevent problems, thorough hand hygiene is certainly considered by those who do this.
Another important point is to have well-trimmed nails to avoid scratching the vaginal wall or the cervix. Many women even use surgical gloves to check the firmness of the cervix.
Cervix Behavior During the Cycle
- Firm and closed cervix: the cervix feels firmer and the opening is tightly closed. This can mean progesterone is still high and that you’re probably not pregnant at the moment. It feels like touching the tip of your nose.
- Soft and open cervix: can indicate that ovulation is happening, or if it’s at the end of the cycle, could mean your period is about to start. The cervix opens so sperm can pass during the fertile window, and at the end of the cycle for blood to come out. The feeling and consistency when touched are similar to touching your lips.
Those who do this procedure also point out two cervix traits that may be associated with pregnancy: if it’s soft, there’s a chance of pregnancy; if it’s firm, it’s likely no pregnancy is in progress.
See, girls, this isn’t an exact science. But in this vast universe of those who are trying to conceive, many of us are in this constant self-investigation to get to know our bodies and spot pregnancy, if that’s the goal.
In fact, knowing the characteristics of your own body2 is important, but remember that everything related to a woman’s intimate area is directly connected to care, gentleness, and especially the safety of what you do.
IMPORTANT: One warning for women who do the cervix test is that, if you already suspect pregnancy, it’s best to avoid it. If done incorrectly, it can cause a miscarriage. So, it’s important to be aware and careful.
Frequently Asked Reader Questions!
To answer some of the most common questions from readers, I left a few answers below. But if you’re still not at ease, feel free to leave your comment.
What is the swab test?
The swab test is something some women who are trying to conceive use to check if their period is about to come or not. They insert a swab into the vaginal canal and observe: if it comes out white and with no bleeding, your period likely isn’t close; if it comes out reddish or brown, it’s a sign your period may be arriving.
What kind of discharge is normal in the swab test?
Discharge before and after ovulation can be that whitish, ointment-like substance. This is called progesterone mucus. As soon as a woman enters the fertile window, estrogen becomes the dominant hormone and “egg white”–like or more watery mucus may appear on the swab. After the fertile window, the white, ointment-like mucus returns and stays until the next period, or if pregnant, remains until the end of pregnancy.
If you’re trying to conceive, egg white mucus is precious, because it helps sperm reach the egg. But if you don’t have ideal mucus, you can use specific gels to mimic its function. For this, there’s FamiGel. Besides improving vaginal lubrication and increasing pleasure, it controls vaginal pH, meaning it’s not harmful to sperm as some ordinary lubricants are. Learn more about FamiGel here.
How is the cervix test done?
The cervix test is done by doctors, in a clinic, with all the necessary practice and knowledge. However, since women who are trying to conceive are always watching their bodies, many also do it themselves.
The point is that there’s no rule as to how the uterus feels during pregnancy, since each body responds differently3. Normally, what counts in these cases to detect pregnancy is texture. Doctors also consider the volume to detect pregnancy.
Can you find out if you’re pregnant by pressing your belly?
Some women say they can feel a “small bump” in their belly, but in reality this is not a safe way to confirm pregnancy. The best way to confirm is through pharmacy tests or lab blood tests.
When should you do the swab test?
Women who use this test usually do it close to the expected period or on the expected day. But here’s a warning: performing this test can be risky if you suspect pregnancy, since swab contact with the cervix can cause problems.
My cervix is open. What does that mean?
An open cervix can have two meanings: either your period is coming, or you’re in your fertile window. During the fertile window, the cervix opens to receive the sperm. That’s why, for most women trying to conceive, this is the ideal time to have intercourse.
What should you look for in the swab test?
In the swab test, what you should observe is the color and consistency of the discharge, which will show if your period is near or not.
See also: Billings Method
