Noting Cervical Changes

• Some women do self-exams with their fingers to check the position and firmness of the cervix. If a woman tracks these changes regularly, she will be able to notice differences as she becomes familiar with her cycle and have something to compare them to during pregnancy. For example, during ovulation, the cervix of most women will be firm, low and feel similar to the tip of a nose. A soft and squishy cervix can be related to early pregnancy.
  
  

When Cervical Changes Occur

• The cervix will become softer and higher at some point during the first trimester of pregnancy for all women. Exactly when this occurs can vary significantly from one woman to another.
  
  

Diagnosing Pregnancy

• While some women who know they are pregnant may choose to check the cervix out of curiosity, it is not a reliable way to diagnose a pregnancy. If a woman thinks she may be pregnant, she should take a pregnancy test around the time her period is due. Some medical professionals advise against women checking their own cervixes, claiming it can introduce bacteria and cause infection.