cervical mucus, a secretion of the columnar epithelium lining the upper portion of the cervical canal of the uterus. The mucus that is secreted by endocervical glands changes in appearance and consistency throughout the menstrual cycle. For the first few days after menstruation, little mucus is secreted. As ovulation approaches, increasing amounts of sticky cloudy-white or yellowish secretions are seen. Around the time of ovulation, the volume of mucus increases, and it becomes clear, slippery, and elastic, resembling the uncooked white of an egg. After ovulation the mucus becomes cloudy, thick, sticky, and progressively less profuse until menstruation supervenes to begin the cycle again. It forms the endocervical “plug” in pregnancy, which when released causes “bloody show.” See also mucous plug, ovulation method of family planning.
