Tanya Dutt

Could You Be Ignoring The Hidden Dangers Of High Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance in the cells of your body and plays various roles, such as the production of hormones, aid in digestion, and also in the repair of the cells. Even though the body makes all the cholesterol it requires, having extra cholesterol levels may be life-threatening. Sadly, this condition comes at a later stage in many people as <span>high cholesterol</span> typically does not come with noticeable symptoms. 

It is known commonly as the "<span>silent killer</span>" because it damages one's health stealthily, going without any warnings and causing major health complications if left unchecked.

In the U.S. alone, millions of adults are living with high cholesterol, most of whom do not know it exists and the dangers that come with it.

High cholesterol is often silent and in fact sometimes isn't symptomatic until the point it causes severe effects. Eventually, if not managed, may end up causing even severe disorders such as <span>heart disease</span> and <span>stroke</span>, PAD, <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/kidney-failure">kidney failure</a></span>, and sometimes cancer, too. That is the reason why high cholesterol never to be taken lightly

Heart disease is one of the most fatal outcomes associated with high cholesterol. When cholesterol builds up in the arteries, it forms a condition called atherosclerosis. This is a process whereby cholesterol, fat, and other materials collect on the inner linings of the arteries to form plaques. As time passes, this plaque narrows and hardens the arteries, reducing blood flow. Less blood supply to the heart causes angina; extreme cases cause a heart attack.

A heart attack occurs when the blood supply to part of the heart is blocked, often by a blood clot formed from the rupture of plaque in the arteries. This blockage can result in irreversible damage to the heart muscle. In some cases, this damage can be fatal, making heart disease one of the leading causes of death in the U.S.

Cholesterol is not only bad for the heart, but it can also affect the brain. High cholesterol with high blood pressure increases the risk of stroke. When plaque builds up in the arteries leading to the brain, blood flow becomes restricted, depriving the brain of the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function properly. This can result in a clot forming, which can travel to the brain and cause a stroke.

A stroke is the blockage of blood to a portion of the brain and, subsequently, death to brain cells. The intensity of the stroke depends on the area of the brain that has been affected; thus, it can bring long-term effects such as paralysis, memory loss, and speech difficulties.

<h4>3. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)</h4>

Cholesterol-induced plaque build-up can also affect the arteries that are in your legs and arms, which leads to what's called peripheral artery disease (PAD). This occurs as a result of poor circulation when the arteries carrying blood to the limbs have been narrowed or blocked. Those suffering from PAD would develop pain, weakness, or cramping in the leg upon physical activity. Furthermore, they may even struggle to walk.

If PAD is left untreated, it can cause more significant complications, like ulcers and infections that can be followed by tissue death. It can become so serious that it leads to the amputation of the limb affected. In this manner, PAD presents a good example of how high cholesterol causes problems with circulation leading to serious diseases beyond heart or brain failure.

High cholesterol can also affect the kidneys adversely. The kidneys depend on proper blood flow to clean out the waste products from the body. However, if cholesterol blocks the arteries supplying the kidneys, it decreases the blood flow which further weakens the performance of the kidneys. With time, this can result in impaired kidneys or failure of the kidneys.

Kidney failure can be dangerous and requires the patient to need dialysis or a transplant. Therefore, controlling cholesterol is not only crucial for heart and brain functions but also for protecting your kidneys.

Even though the connection between cholesterol and cancer is still being looked into, it is believed by many researchers that high levels of cholesterol can lead to particular cancers. Recently, the UCLA discovered a connection that shows how cholesterol may also have a relationship with colon cancer. It is though that cholesterol causes cancer cells to multiply; however, there is much to know about this.

Because the condition does not have obvious symptoms, it is dangerous; a person can live with it for years without even realizing how much damage is being done to the body. Certain signs, however, will indicate that your cholesterol level is alarmingly high, especially if it has reached the point of peripheral artery disease, or PAD.

If you have high cholesterol or are at risk due to factors such as being over 40, being overweight, or having a family history of heart disease, it's very important to monitor for any unusual signs, particularly in your legs and feet. Symptoms of PAD, which may indicate that high cholesterol is affecting your circulation, include:

<ul><li>Pain or cramping in the legs, particularly when walking or exercising</li><li>Ulcers or open sores on the feet or legs that do not heal</li><li>Gangrene, or tissue death, from poor circulation</li><li>Hair loss</li><li>Brittle, slow-growing toenails</li><li>Numbness or weakness</li><li>Shiny skin or changes in skin color, such as paleness or a blue tint</li><li>Erectile dysfunction due to poor blood flow to the pelvic area</li></ul>

The good news is that it can be managed. High cholesterol levels can be reduced greatly if you make lifestyle adjustments like adopting a healthy diet, exercising regularly, not smoking, and not having excess alcohol. In most cases, medication may be prescribed to help control the cholesterol.

A diet low in saturated fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower your cholesterol levels. Regular physical activity can improve <span>heart health</span> and reduce cholesterol. Lastly, routine cholesterol screenings are crucial to detect high cholesterol early before it causes irreversible damage.

High cholesterol is a major health risk, and its hidden dangers should not be ignored. These effects eventually cause the serious problems like death threats: heart diseases and strokes or renal failures. At times, you are free from all the symptoms in the initial stages. Instead, maintaining healthy life skills and a proper routine test would enable you to treat high cholesterol and preserve yourself for further complications. Do not wait until it is too late; do something about lowering your cholesterol now and reducing the risk of serious complications.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

heart health

high cholesterol

heart disease

stroke

kidney failure

cholesterol management

silent killer

cholesterol symptoms

Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025: Theme, History, And Importance

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Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance in the cells of your body and plays various roles, such as the production of hormones, aid in digestion, and also in the repair of the cells. Even though the body makes all the cholesterol it requires, having extra cholesterol levels may be life-threatening. Sadly, this condition comes at a later stage in many people as high cholesterol typically does not come with noticeable symptoms. It is known commonly as the "silent killer" because it damages one's health stealthily, going without any warnings and causing major health complications if left unchecked.In the U.S. alone, millions of adults are living with high cholesterol, most of whom do not know it exists and the dangers that come with it.High cholesterol is often silent and in fact sometimes isn't symptomatic until the point it causes severe effects. Eventually, if not managed, may end up causing even severe disorders such as heart disease and stroke, PAD, kidney failure, and sometimes cancer, too. That is the reason why high cholesterol never to be taken lightly1. Heart DiseaseHeart disease is one of the most fatal outcomes associated with high cholesterol. When cholesterol builds up in the arteries, it forms a condition called atherosclerosis. This is a process whereby cholesterol, fat, and other materials collect on the inner linings of the arteries to form plaques. As time passes, this plaque narrows and hardens the arteries, reducing blood flow. Less blood supply to the heart causes angina; extreme cases cause a heart attack.A heart attack occurs when the blood supply to part of the heart is blocked, often by a blood clot formed from the rupture of plaque in the arteries. This blockage can result in irreversible damage to the heart muscle. In some cases, this damage can be fatal, making heart disease one of the leading causes of death in the U.S.2. StrokeCholesterol is not only bad for the heart, but it can also affect the brain. High cholesterol with high blood pressure increases the risk of stroke. When plaque builds up in the arteries leading to the brain, blood flow becomes restricted, depriving the brain of the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function properly. This can result in a clot forming, which can travel to the brain and cause a stroke.A stroke is the blockage of blood to a portion of the brain and, subsequently, death to brain cells. The intensity of the stroke depends on the area of the brain that has been affected; thus, it can bring long-term effects such as paralysis, memory loss, and speech difficulties.3. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)Cholesterol-induced plaque build-up can also affect the arteries that are in your legs and arms, which leads to what's called peripheral artery disease (PAD). This occurs as a result of poor circulation when the arteries carrying blood to the limbs have been narrowed or blocked. Those suffering from PAD would develop pain, weakness, or cramping in the leg upon physical activity. Furthermore, they may even struggle to walk.If PAD is left untreated, it can cause more significant complications, like ulcers and infections that can be followed by tissue death. It can become so serious that it leads to the amputation of the limb affected. In this manner, PAD presents a good example of how high cholesterol causes problems with circulation leading to serious diseases beyond heart or brain failure.4. Kidney FailureHigh cholesterol can also affect the kidneys adversely. The kidneys depend on proper blood flow to clean out the waste products from the body. However, if cholesterol blocks the arteries supplying the kidneys, it decreases the blood flow which further weakens the performance of the kidneys. With time, this can result in impaired kidneys or failure of the kidneys.Kidney failure can be dangerous and requires the patient to need dialysis or a transplant. Therefore, controlling cholesterol is not only crucial for heart and brain functions but also for protecting your kidneys.5. CancerEven though the connection between cholesterol and cancer is still being looked into, it is believed by many researchers that high levels of cholesterol can lead to particular cancers. Recently, the UCLA discovered a connection that shows how cholesterol may also have a relationship with colon cancer. It is though that cholesterol causes cancer cells to multiply; however, there is much to know about this.Symptoms of High CholesterolBecause the condition does not have obvious symptoms, it is dangerous; a person can live with it for years without even realizing how much damage is being done to the body. Certain signs, however, will indicate that your cholesterol level is alarmingly high, especially if it has reached the point of peripheral artery disease, or PAD.If you have high cholesterol or are at risk due to factors such as being over 40, being overweight, or having a family history of heart disease, it's very important to monitor for any unusual signs, particularly in your legs and feet. Symptoms of PAD, which may indicate that high cholesterol is affecting your circulation, include:Pain or cramping in the legs, particularly when walking or exercisingUlcers or open sores on the feet or legs that do not healGangrene, or tissue death, from poor circulationHair lossBrittle, slow-growing toenailsNumbness or weaknessShiny skin or changes in skin color, such as paleness or a blue tintErectile dysfunction due to poor blood flow to the pelvic areaHow to Lower Your CholesterolThe good news is that it can be managed. High cholesterol levels can be reduced greatly if you make lifestyle adjustments like adopting a healthy diet, exercising regularly, not smoking, and not having excess alcohol. In most cases, medication may be prescribed to help control the cholesterol.A diet low in saturated fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower your cholesterol levels. Regular physical activity can improve heart health and reduce cholesterol. Lastly, routine cholesterol screenings are crucial to detect high cholesterol early before it causes irreversible damage.High cholesterol is a major health risk, and its hidden dangers should not be ignored. These effects eventually cause the serious problems like death threats: heart diseases and strokes or renal failures. At times, you are free from all the symptoms in the initial stages. Instead, maintaining healthy life skills and a proper routine test would enable you to treat high cholesterol and preserve yourself for further complications. Do not wait until it is too late; do something about lowering your cholesterol now and reducing the risk of serious complications.

could you be ignoring the hidden dangers of high cholesterol?

Health and Me

Ishita Roy

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

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Does Your Cervix Change Its Shape Throughout Your Life?

does your cervix change its shape throughout your life?

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<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

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<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?

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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.

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