The Cervix
The cervix is a small part of you, with a big job. It is the gatekeeper of the uterus, and nothing gets in or out without passing through the cervix. Usually, the cervix is thick and firm, but during childbirth it becomes soft and very thin, to allow the baby out.
The cervix also creates mucous which lubricates the vagina, and creates a friendly environment for sperm to swim through. During a pap smear test, cells are rubbed off the cervix and examined under a microscope.
Internal Os
External Os
The entry point to the uterus.
The opening in the cervix that leads from the vagina to the uterus.
Cervical mucous changes throughout your cycle. It can be thick or thin, white or clear!
AT YOUR CERVIX...
You might know that the os, (rhymes with sauce), is the entrance to the cervix, but did you know that the external os usually changes shape after childbirth? Women who haven't given birth often have a circular os, while women who have given birth have a line-shaped os. Both are normal and healthy!
Before Childbirth
After
Childbirth