The discharge, also called cervical mucus, is formed in the cervix and shows characteristic changes during the cycle. The changes are the same in every woman except for small nuances, but can change with age. Typical for the discharge at ovulation is the spinnability and glassy color. This is caused by the increased fluid content, which means that the sperm are exposed to optimal conditions for fertilization at the time of ovulation.
Cycle dependent changes
The discharge is secreted from the cervix and is therefore also called cervical mucus. This discharge is slightly different in every woman and also changes with age. However, regular observation of the discharge and a little experience can reveal typical cycle-related changes.
The different expression of the discharge is influenced by the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Directly after menstruation, at the beginning of the cycle, there is usually hardly any discharge. Only a few days later can a yellowish, creamy and sometimes lumpy discharge be detected.
Due to the thick consistency, the discharge is sometimes described as yoghurt-like. In the course of the following days until ovulation, the outflow becomes more and more transparent and fluid. This is due to the increasing concentration of the hormone estrogen.
At this stage the outflow is also described as spinnable. Whether the discharge is spinnable can be tested by spreading a small amount of the secretion over the thumb and index finger and then separating them. If the thread of secretion does not break off even when the fingers are about 5cm apart, the secretion is called spinnable.
This fluid consistency is optimal for transporting sperm towards the cervix and uterus. At the time of ovulation, the liquid consistency of the discharge gives a wet or moist feeling. If one were to look at the dried discharge under the microscope shortly before ovulation, one could perceive the so-called fern weed phenomenon.
The phenomenon is caused by the crystallization of certain salts, which then creates a fern like image on the slide. After ovulation, the discharge changes again. As at the beginning of the cycle, it becomes firmer again and takes on a whitish or yellowish color. At this point it is also no longer spinnable and difficult for sperm to penetrate.
