A closed cervix does not always indicate pregnancy. This state may also be a sign that the woman is not ovulating.
Having a closed cervix is not always a sign of pregnancy. The fact that the uterus is in this condition also indicates that the woman is not ovulating.
The cervix is part of a woman’s reproductive system and is located in the lower part of the uterus, in direct contact with the vagina.
It is composed of a central opening called the cervical canal.
This canal is responsible for connecting the vagina and the uterus and can be found in two ways: open or closed.
During pregnancy, the conditions of the uterus have a total influence on childbirth, as if the organ is experiencing problems it can open earlier and bring forward childbirth.
Another situation in which the cervix may be open is during the menstrual period.
It opens so that menstrual flow can be released every month.
Follow this article until the end and clarify your doubts about a closed cervix.
What is the function of the cervix?
First of all, to start talking about the closed cervix, we need to talk about the function of the cervix.
The cervix is a very important part of the female reproductive system, as it is responsible for protecting the organ from elements or foreign bodies that could cause diseases.
Regular consultations with a gynecologist are very important so that the health of the uterus can be checked and, in the event of any illness, that it can be treated at an early stage of development.
The cervix is an important protective barrier, especially when a woman is pregnant.
Open cervix during the menstrual cycle
During the menstrual cycle, the cervix is open so that menstruation can be expelled from the body, therefore, during this period the organ is more fragile and susceptible to contamination by fungi and bacteria.
During this period the “doors are open” and there is little care, especially for women who intend to have sex during their cycle.
This is why it is so important to use condoms during sex during your period.
What is the function of the cervix in pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the cervix is closed.
During pregnancy, the cervix acts as a protector of the fetus, that is, it is in a firmer state in order to seal the exit and thus make it impossible for the baby to exit prematurely.
During prenatal exams, the doctor will monitor the entire development of the fetus and the current state of the cervix.
And if the closure is occurring inappropriately, the doctor may take measures to protect the baby and, consequently, avoid an abortion.
When a woman goes into labor, under normal conditions, the opening of the cervix relaxes and dilates to facilitate the passage of the baby.
It’s as if the plug opens for the birth of the child.
What is the size of the cervix during pregnancy?
When we talk about pregnancy, many aspects are not exact, as they can vary from woman to woman.
So, considering these variations, during pregnancy the cervix can be around 9 centimeters long and 3 centimeters deep.
This, in the case of a common pregnancy with just one baby.
In pregnancy with twins or more babies, this size may be even larger.
After pregnancy and childbirth, the cervix becomes slit-shaped on the outside and may increase in size.
Shortening of the neck
Some women have a short cervix, a situation that requires a lot of attention and medical monitoring during pregnancy.
Throughout pregnancy, it is important to monitor whether the cervix is closed correctly, whether there is early dilation and whether its length is short.
When the cervix is below 25mm in length, the diagnosis must be made at an early stage, otherwise there is a risk of miscarriages or premature births.
In these cases, the doctor may recommend a procedure called cerclage, which consists of placing a suture in the region to keep the cervix closed until the correct time of birth.
That’s 37ª the stitches are removed, allowing the birth to follow its normal cycle and the baby to arrive at the right time.
Closed cervix and bleeding during pregnancy
Bleeding is always a concern during pregnancy and should always be monitored by a doctor, who will take appropriate action in this regard.
When the cervix is closed and some type of bleeding occurs, it may just be some blood vessels that have been ruptured inside the organ.
This bleeding could also be the embryo being implanted in the uterus.
However, there are no “simple problems” during pregnancy and all unusual occurrences must be investigated by the obstetrician.
Therefore, at the sign of any bleeding, do not wait and run to your doctor.
How to feel the cervix
Normally, to check whether the cervix is closed or open, you need to be at the doctor’s office so that the appropriate checks can be made.
However, the woman can also do the digital examination alone.
To do this, have your hands properly sterilized, sit in a comfortable position where your legs can be open and the vagina can be relaxed so that your fingers can slide through the canal without difficulty.
Once the position is prepared, insert your index finger into the vagina until it meets the cervix.
Some women may need to use lubricants to facilitate entry.
With your fingertips it will be possible to feel whether the cervix is closed or open and also identify any discomfort or pain when touched.
Seek medical help immediately if you notice any unusual changes.
Cervix preparing for birth
When the time of birth approaches, the cervix undergoes some changes so that the baby can come into the world naturally.
As the time approaches, the cervix begins to relax and dilate. This normally happens between 37ª e 42ª week of gestation.
A few weeks before giving birth, the female body begins to prepare itself so that correct dilation occurs and so that the baby can pass through the canal without problems during birth.
Now that you’re up to date with everything about a closed cervix, how about finding out more about pregnancy?
Also check out: Stitching in the uterus – Main causes and tests to detect
