Tanya Dutt

Aortic Dissection: Key Facts About This Life-Threatening Heart Condition

Aortic Dissection Awareness Day

The aorta, the body's largest blood vessel, plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen-rich blood from the heart to vital organs. <span>Aorta Awareness Month</span>, observed in September, highlights the significance of this major artery and raises awareness about <span>aortic dissection</span>, a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

The aorta is the body's main artery, extending from the heart down through the abdomen, and branches into smaller arteries that supply blood to the body's organs. Its walls are composed of three layers: 

<strong>The inner layer (intima)</strong> – closest to the blood flow.

<strong>The middle layer (media)</strong> – which provides the structure and strength to the vessel.

<strong>The outer layer (adventitia)</strong> – which protects the artery from external damage.

An aortic dissection occurs when there is a tear in the inner layer of the aorta, allowing blood to flow between the layers of the wall. This creates a "false lumen," a new channel that runs parallel to the normal blood flow. This condition can quickly escalate into a severe emergency if not treated promptly, leading to the rupture of the aortic wall and potentially causing life-threatening internal bleeding.

Aortic dissection is a serious medical condition that requires urgent attention. When a tear forms in the inner layer of the aorta, blood forces its way between the layers of the aortic wall, causing them to separate. The separation creates a secondary passage for the blood, which can cause the aorta to swell. If the pressure becomes too great, the outer wall may also rupture, leading to rapid blood loss.

This condition can cause a sudden onset of symptoms, often mistaken for a <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/heart-attack">heart attack</a></span>, including severe chest or back pain, fainting, shortness of breath, and stroke-like symptoms. The likelihood of survival decreases by 1% for every hour that passes without treatment. In severe cases, a person can lose consciousness within 30 seconds and die shortly after due to internal bleeding.

<h2>Risk Factors and Causes of Aortic Dissection</h2>

Several factors can weaken the aortic wall over time, making it more susceptible to tears. Common causes include:

- Chronic high blood pressure (hypertension): Over time, high blood pressure exerts increased stress on the aorta's walls, causing them to weaken and eventually rupture.

- Genetic predisposition: Conditions such as Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and familial thoracic aortic aneurysm increase the likelihood of developing aortic dissection.

- Atherosclerosis: The buildup of plaque in the arteries can contribute to the weakening of the aorta.

- Trauma or injury: Physical trauma to the chest or abdomen can lead to dissection.

Aortic dissection can also occur without any known risk factors, making it difficult to predict or prevent in some cases. 

<h2>Aortic Dissection: Symptoms and Warning Signs</h2>

Recognizing the symptoms of aortic dissection can be life-saving. Common signs include:

- Sudden, severe chest or back pain, often described as "tearing" or "ripping."

- Symptoms of stroke, such as difficulty speaking, vision loss, or paralysis on one side of the body.

Aortic dissections are medical emergencies that require immediate attention. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek emergency care right away.

Aorta Awareness Month aims to educate the public about the symptoms, risks, and importance of early diagnosis for conditions like aortic dissection. The primary goal is to encourage individuals to seek medical attention if they experience sudden chest pain or other related symptoms.

Additionally, the campaign promotes research efforts and support networks for survivors. Events across the globe offer patients and their families an opportunity to connect, share their experiences, and find solace in knowing they are not alone.

Aortic dissection is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention. Awareness campaigns during Aorta Awareness Month aim to inform the public about the risks and symptoms of this condition, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

heart health

aorta awareness month

aortic dissection

aortic dissection symptoms

heart disorder

heart attack

heart surgery

Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025: Theme, History, And Importance

Amid Measles Outbreak, Texas Makes Vaccine Exemption Easier For Kids

Fuel or Fluff? Here's What Peanut Butter Really Does For Your Muscle

Health & Wellness

Makhana Season – Healthy &amp; Quick Foxnut Recipes

Monsoon Ahead – Tips On Building Rainy Season Immunity

Do You Have Prickly Heat Rash – Symptoms, Causes And Treatment

Healthy No-Cook Recipes You Can Try

How Do You Calorie Count – Numbers And Nutrients

Unexpected Signs Of Dehydration – Safety And Precaution Measures

Leg Exercises You Can Do At Home To Build Strength

Foods That Promote Skin Elasticity

Must-Do Chest Exercises You Can Try At Home

What Are The Symptoms Of JN.1 COVID-19 Strain?

Why Does Sleeping Become Harder As You Age?

High-Fiber Healthy Drinks You Should Try

10 Dumbbell Exercise Variations For Upper-Body Strength

A Parent’s Guide To Pets: Important Points To Consider For Your Child’s Health

Food Anxiety Is Real – How Your Food Intake Affects Your Anxiety

World Osteoporosis Month: Ways To Strengthen Your Bones

Brain Exercises To Keep You Cognitively Sharp

Easy Recipes To Make When You Don’t Wish To Cook

Physical Signs Of High Cortisol

9 Healthy Plant-Based Protein Rich Dishes To Try

What Happens When You Have Low Blood Pressure?

Throw These Toxic Bathroom Items Away To Protect Your Health

This Is What Cricket Superstar Virat Kohli Eats In A Day

Signs You Are Experiencing Sensory Overload

Shoulder Exercises You Should Do For Defined Shoulders

Best Foods To Eat When You Are Fasting

​Ghee For Ayurveda: Why It Should Be A Part Of Your Diet​

Symptoms Of Ovarian Cancer You Should Know

Yoga Poses That Can Build Core Strength

Biotin-Rich Foods You Should Add To Your Diet

Unexpected Physical Signs Of Stress

Simple And Affective Guide To Stop A Panic Attack

Signs Of Heat Exhaustion In Children

10 Heart Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore

Lower Your Cholesterol With These Foods

Food Myths You Should Stop Believing

Work Stressing You Out? Tips To Handle Toxic Workspaces

Looking To Gain Weight? High-Calorie Healthy Foods To Try

​Pomegranates Are A Must For Summer, Here’s Why​

​How Does Being A Night Owl Change Your Brain​

The aorta, the body's largest blood vessel, plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen-rich blood from the heart to vital organs. Aorta Awareness Month, observed in September, highlights the significance of this major artery and raises awareness about aortic dissection, a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.The aorta is the body's main artery, extending from the heart down through the abdomen, and branches into smaller arteries that supply blood to the body's organs. Its walls are composed of three layers: The inner layer (intima) – closest to the blood flow.The middle layer (media) – which provides the structure and strength to the vessel.The outer layer (adventitia) – which protects the artery from external damage.An aortic dissection occurs when there is a tear in the inner layer of the aorta, allowing blood to flow between the layers of the wall. This creates a "false lumen," a new channel that runs parallel to the normal blood flow. This condition can quickly escalate into a severe emergency if not treated promptly, leading to the rupture of the aortic wall and potentially causing life-threatening internal bleeding.What is Aortic Dissection?Aortic dissection is a serious medical condition that requires urgent attention. When a tear forms in the inner layer of the aorta, blood forces its way between the layers of the aortic wall, causing them to separate. The separation creates a secondary passage for the blood, which can cause the aorta to swell. If the pressure becomes too great, the outer wall may also rupture, leading to rapid blood loss.This condition can cause a sudden onset of symptoms, often mistaken for a heart attack, including severe chest or back pain, fainting, shortness of breath, and stroke-like symptoms. The likelihood of survival decreases by 1% for every hour that passes without treatment. In severe cases, a person can lose consciousness within 30 seconds and die shortly after due to internal bleeding.Risk Factors and Causes of Aortic DissectionSeveral factors can weaken the aortic wall over time, making it more susceptible to tears. Common causes include:- Chronic high blood pressure (hypertension): Over time, high blood pressure exerts increased stress on the aorta's walls, causing them to weaken and eventually rupture.- Genetic predisposition: Conditions such as Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and familial thoracic aortic aneurysm increase the likelihood of developing aortic dissection.- Atherosclerosis: The buildup of plaque in the arteries can contribute to the weakening of the aorta.- Trauma or injury: Physical trauma to the chest or abdomen can lead to dissection. Aortic dissection can also occur without any known risk factors, making it difficult to predict or prevent in some cases. Aortic Dissection: Symptoms and Warning SignsRecognizing the symptoms of aortic dissection can be life-saving. Common signs include:- Sudden, severe chest or back pain, often described as "tearing" or "ripping."- Shortness of breath.- Fainting or dizziness.- Rapid pulse and low blood pressure.- Symptoms of stroke, such as difficulty speaking, vision loss, or paralysis on one side of the body.Aortic dissections are medical emergencies that require immediate attention. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek emergency care right away.Aorta Awareness Month aims to educate the public about the symptoms, risks, and importance of early diagnosis for conditions like aortic dissection. The primary goal is to encourage individuals to seek medical attention if they experience sudden chest pain or other related symptoms.Additionally, the campaign promotes research efforts and support networks for survivors. Events across the globe offer patients and their families an opportunity to connect, share their experiences, and find solace in knowing they are not alone.Aortic dissection is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention. Awareness campaigns during Aorta Awareness Month aim to inform the public about the risks and symptoms of this condition, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment.

aortic dissection awareness day: key facts about this life-threatening heart condition

Health and Me

Ishita Roy

'I Hit Menopause At 15'- Doctors Told Her She Had Skeleton Of A 75-Year-Old

'i hit menopause at 15'- doctors told her she had skeleton of a 75-year-old

Does Your Cervix Change Its Shape Throughout Your Life?

does your cervix change its shape throughout your life?

PCOS Impacts Cognitive Function, Finds IIT-Bombay Study

pcos impacts cognitive function, finds iit-bombay study

5 Reasons To Get Regular STI Testing If You’re 'Sexually Active'

5 reasons to get regular sti testing if you’re 'sexually active'

<span>Menstrual Hygiene Day</span> is observed every year on May 28. It has become a global event which marks the importance of menstrual hygiene and also draws attention to the importance of breaking taboos related to menstruation. The concept lies in the understanding that <span>menstrual health</span>, in fact, is a fundamental aspect of human rights, dignity, and public health. This year, Sustainable Development Goals is leading the charge to educate, empower, and transform the conversation around menstrual health. 

Good menstrual hygiene is also crucial for the health, well-being, and empowerment of women and girls worldwide. It also plays a critical role in enabling women and girls to reach their full potential. 

<h4><span rel="noindex">Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025</span> Theme</h4>

This year, the theme for Menstrual Hygiene Day is "Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld". This theme encourages collective action to ensure that menstruation does not limit access to education, health, or opportunities. It also emphasizes on the importance of breaking the taboo and stigma around menstruation. The goal is to create a world where menstruation is a normal part of life and everyone can manage their periods with dignity and safety. 

It was first initiated by a German-based NGO WASH United in 2013 and observed for the first time in 2014. This is especially important for developing countries, where women's choices of menstrual hygiene materials are often limited by the costs, availability and social norms. 

Why is it important to talk about periods? The reason is that even today, 1 in 4 women in India say they are being negatively impacted through social media misinformation about menstruation. It creates panic and fear about something which is a natural process. This data comes from the 10th edition of the everteen Menstrual Hygiene Survey, which was released ahead of Menstrual Hygiene Day. 

As per the World Bank, on any given day, more than 300 million women worldwide are menstruating. In total, an estimated of 500 million women lack access to menstrual products and adequate facilities for menstrual hygiene management. As per the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme 2012, menstrual hygiene is defined as: 

“Women and adolescent girls are using a clean menstrual management material to absorb or collect menstrual blood, that can be changed in privacy as often as necessary, using soap and water for washing the body as required, and having access to safe and convenient facilities to dispose of used menstrual management materials. They understand the basic facts linked to the menstrual cycle and how to manage it with dignity and without discomfort or fear.” 

The challenges that menstruators face encompass more than just lack of basic supplies and infrastructure. While menstruation is normal and healthy part of life, there are many societies, where menstruators continue to be constrained by cultural taboos, which further encourages unhygienic practices, shaming, isolation, and even gender-based violence. 

As per a study published in 2017 in Best Practice &amp; Research Clinical Obstetrics &amp; Gynaecology, that talks about the myths and symbolism related to menstruation which further encourages taboos. These cultural norms, associated with religion and historical beliefs also link menstruation with impurity, which is why it leads to menstruators feeling ashamed to talk about it, further discouraging them the access to a healthy life. 

menstrual hygiene day

health and wellness

menstrual health

menstrual hygiene day 2025

women's health

Menstrual Hygiene Day is observed every year on May 28. It has become a global event which marks the importance of menstrual hygiene and also draws attention to the importance of breaking taboos related to menstruation. The concept lies in the understanding that menstrual health, in fact, is a fundamental aspect of human rights, dignity, and public health. This year, Sustainable Development Goals is leading the charge to educate, empower, and transform the conversation around menstrual health. Good menstrual hygiene is also crucial for the health, well-being, and empowerment of women and girls worldwide. It also plays a critical role in enabling women and girls to reach their full potential. Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025 ThemeThis year, the theme for Menstrual Hygiene Day is "Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld". This theme encourages collective action to ensure that menstruation does not limit access to education, health, or opportunities. It also emphasizes on the importance of breaking the taboo and stigma around menstruation. The goal is to create a world where menstruation is a normal part of life and everyone can manage their periods with dignity and safety. Menstrual Hygiene Day HistoryIt was first initiated by a German-based NGO WASH United in 2013 and observed for the first time in 2014. This is especially important for developing countries, where women's choices of menstrual hygiene materials are often limited by the costs, availability and social norms. Why Is It Important?Why is it important to talk about periods? The reason is that even today, 1 in 4 women in India say they are being negatively impacted through social media misinformation about menstruation. It creates panic and fear about something which is a natural process. This data comes from the 10th edition of the everteen Menstrual Hygiene Survey, which was released ahead of Menstrual Hygiene Day. As per the World Bank, on any given day, more than 300 million women worldwide are menstruating. In total, an estimated of 500 million women lack access to menstrual products and adequate facilities for menstrual hygiene management. As per the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme 2012, menstrual hygiene is defined as: “Women and adolescent girls are using a clean menstrual management material to absorb or collect menstrual blood, that can be changed in privacy as often as necessary, using soap and water for washing the body as required, and having access to safe and convenient facilities to dispose of used menstrual management materials. They understand the basic facts linked to the menstrual cycle and how to manage it with dignity and without discomfort or fear.” The challenges that menstruators face encompass more than just lack of basic supplies and infrastructure. While menstruation is normal and healthy part of life, there are many societies, where menstruators continue to be constrained by cultural taboos, which further encourages unhygienic practices, shaming, isolation, and even gender-based violence. As per a study published in 2017 in Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology, that talks about the myths and symbolism related to menstruation which further encourages taboos. These cultural norms, associated with religion and historical beliefs also link menstruation with impurity, which is why it leads to menstruators feeling ashamed to talk about it, further discouraging them the access to a healthy life. 

menstrual hygiene day 2025: theme, history, and importance

Riya Baibhawi

This Easily Available Nutrient Can Also Slow Down Ageing

Nutrition

fuel or fluff? here's what peanut butter really does for your muscle

Can Vegan Diet Make You Weak?

can vegan diet make you weak?

Selenium, Zinc And Iodine: How These Nutrients Balance Your Thyroid Naturally?

selenium, zinc and iodine: how these nutrients balance your thyroid naturally

Lower Your High Blood Pressure Within ‘Weeks’ With These 3 Lifestyle Changes

lower blood pressure with these 3 lifestyle changes within ‘weeks’

<span>Vitamin D</span> is well-known for supporting strong bones, but new research suggests it may also play a surprising role in slowing down the aging process itself. A new study published in <em>The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,</em> reveals that daily <span>vitamin D supplementation</span> could help preserve telomeres—the protective caps at the ends of DNA strands—which naturally shorten as we age. Conducted by researchers at Mass General Brigham and the Medical College of Georgia, the reinforces anti-age studies indicating that the "<span>sunshine vitamin</span>" may slow biological aging at the cellular level.

The study, followed over 1,000 older adults in the US-men over 50 and women over 55. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo or a daily dose of vitamin D3 (2,000 IU) along with omega-3 fatty acids (1 gram). Telomere length in white blood cells was measured at the start, mid-point, and end of the study.

The results were striking. Compared to the placebo group, those taking vitamin D experienced significantly less telomere shortening—the cellular equivalent of aging three years more slowly. In contrast, omega-3 supplements did not have a significant effect on telomere length.

"Telomeres act like the plastic tips at the ends of shoelaces" explained study co-author Dr. JoAnn Manson, Professor of Women’s Health at Harvard Medical School. "They help protect our chromosomes from deterioration or fusion. As telomeres shorten with age, the risk of chronic diseases increases." This makes telomere length a powerful indicator of “biological age,” which may better reflect a person’s health status than chronological age alone.

Earlier results from the VITAL trial had already shown that vitamin D supplementation could reduce inflammation and lower the risk of advanced cancers and autoimmune diseases. Now, this new finding adds another layer of evidence in favor of vitamin D’s broader benefits for healthy aging.

“Our findings suggest that targeted vitamin D supplementation may be a promising strategy to counter the biological aging process,” said lead author Dr. Haidong Zhu, a molecular geneticist at the Medical College of Georgia. However, he emphasized that more research is needed to confirm whether these benefits apply across different populations and timeframes.

<h2>What Is Vitamin D Supplementation?</h2>

Vitamin D helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body. These nutrients are needed to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. A lack of vitamin D can lead to bone deformities such as rickets in children, and bone pain caused by a condition called osteomalacia in adults. Government advice is that everyone should consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter.

People at high risk of not getting enough vitamin D, all children aged 1 to 4, and all babies (unless they're having more than 500ml of infant formula a day) should take a daily supplement throughout the year. 

The best source of Vitamin D is sunlight. However, there are many food items through which you can get this essential nutrient. These include:

<ul><li>oily fish – such as salmon, sardines, trout, herring or mackerel</li><li>red meat</li><li>egg yolks</li><li>fortified foods – such as some fat spreads and breakfast cereals</li><li>liver (avoid if you are pregnant)</li></ul>

Diet & Nutrition

Vitamin D

Vitamin D Supplementation

Longevity

Vitamin D and longevity

Sunshine vitamin

Vitamin D is well-known for supporting strong bones, but new research suggests it may also play a surprising role in slowing down the aging process itself. A new study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, reveals that daily vitamin D supplementation could help preserve telomeres—the protective caps at the ends of DNA strands—which naturally shorten as we age. Conducted by researchers at Mass General Brigham and the Medical College of Georgia, the reinforces anti-age studies indicating that the "sunshine vitamin" may slow biological aging at the cellular level.Study Followed 1,000 PeopleThe study, followed over 1,000 older adults in the US-men over 50 and women over 55. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo or a daily dose of vitamin D3 (2,000 IU) along with omega-3 fatty acids (1 gram). Telomere length in white blood cells was measured at the start, mid-point, and end of the study.The results were striking. Compared to the placebo group, those taking vitamin D experienced significantly less telomere shortening—the cellular equivalent of aging three years more slowly. In contrast, omega-3 supplements did not have a significant effect on telomere length."Telomeres act like the plastic tips at the ends of shoelaces" explained study co-author Dr. JoAnn Manson, Professor of Women’s Health at Harvard Medical School. "They help protect our chromosomes from deterioration or fusion. As telomeres shorten with age, the risk of chronic diseases increases." This makes telomere length a powerful indicator of “biological age,” which may better reflect a person’s health status than chronological age alone.Earlier results from the VITAL trial had already shown that vitamin D supplementation could reduce inflammation and lower the risk of advanced cancers and autoimmune diseases. Now, this new finding adds another layer of evidence in favor of vitamin D’s broader benefits for healthy aging.“Our findings suggest that targeted vitamin D supplementation may be a promising strategy to counter the biological aging process,” said lead author Dr. Haidong Zhu, a molecular geneticist at the Medical College of Georgia. However, he emphasized that more research is needed to confirm whether these benefits apply across different populations and timeframes.What Is Vitamin D Supplementation?Vitamin D helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body. These nutrients are needed to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. A lack of vitamin D can lead to bone deformities such as rickets in children, and bone pain caused by a condition called osteomalacia in adults. Government advice is that everyone should consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter.People at high risk of not getting enough vitamin D, all children aged 1 to 4, and all babies (unless they're having more than 500ml of infant formula a day) should take a daily supplement throughout the year. The best source of Vitamin D is sunlight. However, there are many food items through which you can get this essential nutrient. These include:oily fish – such as salmon, sardines, trout, herring or mackerelred meategg yolksfortified foods – such as some fat spreads and breakfast cerealsliver (avoid if you are pregnant)

this easily available nutrient can also slow down ageing

does your cervix sizes change throughout your life?

Fitness

Six Pilates Moves That Will Reduce Joint Pain While Walking

six pilates moves that will reduce joint pain while walking

8 Twisting Yoga Poses You Should Do For Spinal Health

8 twisting yoga poses you should do for spinal health

These Hair Mistakes While Sleeping Are Causing Your Hair Damage

these hair mistakes while sleeping are causing your hair damage

Did you know your <span>cervix</span> moves and changes during your menstrual cycle? If you're trying to get pregnant or just want to understand your body better, learning about your cervix can be really helpful. Here’s how you can check it yourself, what those changes mean, and how to keep it healthy.

The cervix is the lower part of your uterus, connecting it to your vagina. It’s about an inch wide and looks a bit like a small donut with a tiny hole in the center. The word "cervix" comes from Latin, meaning the “neck” of the womb. You’ll find it deep inside your vagina, and its position changes depending on where you are in your cycle.

<ul><li>Lets blood flow out during your period</li><li>Helps sperm enter your uterus during ovulation</li><li>Keeps out bacteria with a protective mucus barrier</li><li>Seals shut during pregnancy to protect the baby</li><li>Opens up during birth to allow the baby to pass</li></ul>

<h4>How the Cervix Changes During Your Cycle</h4>

Your cervix moves and feels different at various times in your cycle:

<ul><li>During ovulation (when you're most fertile), it moves higher up, feels soft (like lips), and opens slightly to let sperm in.</li><li>After ovulation, it lowers again, feels firmer (like the tip of your nose), and the opening closes.</li><li>Right before your period, it drops even lower and stays firm.</li><li>During your period, it stays low and slightly open so blood can flow out.</li></ul>

You can check your cervix at home using clean hands and a gentle touch. Here's how:

<ul><li>Wash your hands well – this helps avoid infections.</li><li>Get into a comfortable position – like sitting on the toilet, squatting, or standing with one leg raised.</li><li>Gently insert a finger into your vagina and reach upward.</li><li>Feel for the cervix – it’s round and firmer than the rest of your vaginal walls.</li></ul>

Your cervix may feel softer and higher during ovulation and lower and firmer before your period. If you've given birth before, your cervix might always feel slightly open.

<strong>Tip: </strong>Don’t check your cervix right after sexual activity—it can move due to arousal. Try checking it at the same time every day to track changes more easily.

<h4>What Cervix Changes Can Tell You</h4>

Noticing how your cervix feels and where it is can give clues about your fertile window, especially if you're trying to get pregnant. During ovulation, you may also see more clear, slippery cervical mucus, which helps sperm travel easily.

Learning how your cervix changes is a simple, natural way to understand your cycle better. Whether you're planning for pregnancy or just curious about your body, this self-check is a helpful tool. Be patient—it may take a few tries to get familiar with how your cervix feels, but it’s a great step toward body awareness and better reproductive health.

cervix

cervix size

cervix shape

sexual health

Did you know your cervix moves and changes during your menstrual cycle? If you're trying to get pregnant or just want to understand your body better, learning about your cervix can be really helpful. Here’s how you can check it yourself, what those changes mean, and how to keep it healthy.What and Where Is the Cervix?The cervix is the lower part of your uterus, connecting it to your vagina. It’s about an inch wide and looks a bit like a small donut with a tiny hole in the center. The word "cervix" comes from Latin, meaning the “neck” of the womb. You’ll find it deep inside your vagina, and its position changes depending on where you are in your cycle.Why Is the Cervix Important?The cervix does a lot for your body:Lets blood flow out during your periodHelps sperm enter your uterus during ovulationKeeps out bacteria with a protective mucus barrierSeals shut during pregnancy to protect the babyOpens up during birth to allow the baby to passHow the Cervix Changes During Your CycleYour cervix moves and feels different at various times in your cycle:During ovulation (when you're most fertile), it moves higher up, feels soft (like lips), and opens slightly to let sperm in.After ovulation, it lowers again, feels firmer (like the tip of your nose), and the opening closes.Right before your period, it drops even lower and stays firm.During your period, it stays low and slightly open so blood can flow out.How to Check Your Cervix?You can check your cervix at home using clean hands and a gentle touch. Here's how:Wash your hands well – this helps avoid infections.Get into a comfortable position – like sitting on the toilet, squatting, or standing with one leg raised.Gently insert a finger into your vagina and reach upward.Feel for the cervix – it’s round and firmer than the rest of your vaginal walls.Take note of what you feel:Is it soft or firm?Is it high or low?Is it open or closed?Your cervix may feel softer and higher during ovulation and lower and firmer before your period. If you've given birth before, your cervix might always feel slightly open.Tip: Don’t check your cervix right after sexual activity—it can move due to arousal. Try checking it at the same time every day to track changes more easily.What Cervix Changes Can Tell YouNoticing how your cervix feels and where it is can give clues about your fertile window, especially if you're trying to get pregnant. During ovulation, you may also see more clear, slippery cervical mucus, which helps sperm travel easily.Learning how your cervix changes is a simple, natural way to understand your cycle better. Whether you're planning for pregnancy or just curious about your body, this self-check is a helpful tool. Be patient—it may take a few tries to get familiar with how your cervix feels, but it’s a great step toward body awareness and better reproductive health.

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.

Aortic Dissection: Key Facts About This Life-Threatening Heart Condition

Quick Stories

Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025: Theme, History, And Importance

This Easily Available Nutrient Can Also Slow Down Ageing

Does Your Cervix Change Its Shape Throughout Your Life?

Health Conditions A-Z

Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025: Theme, History, And Importance

Amid Measles Outbreak, Texas Makes Vaccine Exemption Easier For Kids

Fuel or Fluff? Here's What Peanut Butter Really Does For Your Muscle