Chemical alteration of cervical mucus by electrolytes

Scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray analysis have been used, together with conventional light microscopy and sperm penetration tests, to evaluate the alteration of cervical mucus composition and properties during the menstrual cycle and subsequent to exposure of cervical mucus to electrolytes in vitro and in vivo. Alteration of the electrolyte content of cervical mucus appears to offer a means for the predictable control of cervical properties and penetrability by sperm. This method may have clinical application in both reduction and enhancement of fertility in the human.