Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Exam Prep 2026 – Complete Practice Resource

A fertile period is indicated by fluid and stringy mucus as observed in the Billings method of natural family planning. This type of cervical mucus is typically clear, slippery, and resembles raw egg whites. These characteristics are a result of hormonal changes, particularly the surge in estrogen that occurs just before ovulation. The fluid and stringy mucus not only facilitates sperm movement but also provides a more favorable environment for fertilization.

In contrast, thick and scant mucus would suggest that the body is not in the fertile phase, as this type of mucus inhibits sperm mobility. Dry and non-elastic mucus also indicates that the woman is not fertile; during this phase, mucus is minimal and does not support conception. Consistent colorless mucus may also not represent the peak fertile phase, as its characteristics might not align with the fertile pattern that is typically stringy and abundant. This understanding of cervical mucus changes is critical for determining the fertile window and enhancing fertility awareness.