What is cervical fluid and what are its functions?

Cervical fluid is the secretion produced before ovulation that allows the sperm to reach the egg. In essence, fertile cervical fluid functions like seminal fluid: It provides an alkaline medium that protects the sperm in an otherwise acidic vagina. In addition, it provides nourishment for the sperm, acts as a filtering mechanism, and functions as a medium in which to move. After your period and directly under the influence of rising estrogen, your cervical fluid typically starts to become wetter and wetter as you approach ovulation. After your period ends, you may have several days of nothing, followed by cervical fluid that evolves from sticky to creamy and finally to clear, slippery, and stretchy, similar to raw egg white. You should also be aware that, as with temperature, there are certain factors that can mask or interfere with cervical fluid.

These include: Vaginal infection Seminal fluid Arousal fluid Spermicides and lubricants Antihistamines (which can dry it) Cough medicine (which can increase it)