Cervix Mucus
Synonyms
Cervical Mucus
Fern Test
Fern Tests
Mucus, Cervical
Mucus, Cervix
Palm Leaf Reaction
Palm-Leaf Reaction
Palm-Leaf Reactions
Reaction, Palm-Leaf
Reactions, Palm-Leaf
Test, Fern
Tests, Fern
A slightly alkaline secretion of the endocervical glands. The consistency and amount are dependent on the physiological hormone changes in the menstrual cycle. It contains the glycoprotein mucin, amino acids, sugar, enzymes, and electrolytes, with a water content up to 90%. The mucus is a useful protection against the ascent of bacteria and sperm into the uterus. (From Dictionary of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1988)