Cervical changes in pregnancy

[Mustardyellows]

Hi all,

just looking for some info relating to cervical changes.

This is my second pregnancy and I’m about 16 weeks.

I had some cramping in my vagina/vulva this afternoon. For some reason I decided to check myself internally (why?) and now I’m freaking out a bit.

I could feel that I was pretty swollen (assume normal in pregnancy due to blood flow) and my cervix was super soft but also felt slightly open and slightly rough around the opening.

I don’t know if it was damaged in my previous birth and that’s why it feels weird or if it’s something to worry about.

I also don’t know the appropriate medical person to ask. I’m consultant led, so don’t have a midwife and don’t think that triage would want to see me. I also don’t have a direct way to contact my consultant.

I have never had any issues on a smear, but also haven’t had one since 2023 due to pregnancies.

Any advice or cervical wisdom?

It’s really important to leave your cervix well alone. It’s vulnerable to infections and also becomes very sensitive during pregnancy with the blood vessels also becoming sensitive. A simple swab was enough to make mine bleed considerably, so it can be normal for it to be swollen and vascular. The internal tissue can also sometimes be pushed out a bit, it’s called an ectropian and is very normal dying pregnancy. Best thing is to leave it alone and get it checked professionally if you have any concerns.