One of the less common problems that can interfere with a couple’s ability to conceive is when the female partner has a deep cervix. To understand how a deep cervix affects fertility and how it affects your role in fertility, you first need to understand what it is.

About a Deep Cervix

The cervix is a small organ located at the bottom of the uterus. It separates your partner’s uterus from her vagina. It’s shaped like a cylinder or a cone. About half of the cervix can be seen using medical equipment, whereas the rest is hidden beyond the vagina.

A deep cervix occurs when the woman’s cervix is farther away from the vaginal opening. In some cases, a woman’s cervix might be in a strange location or differently angled; some doctors may also refer to those conditions as a “deep” cervix.

How a Deep Cervix Affects Fertility

In order to conceive, your sperm need to be able to travel from the vagina and get to the cervix. From there, cervical mucus will carry your sperm along toward the fallopian tubes, where it can fertilize an egg.

If your partner has a deep cervix, your sperm might not make it all the way to the cervix. The vaginal environment is harsh for sperm, and they need to get in contact with that cervical mucus as fast as possible.

What You Can Do About it

A deep cervix isn’t a problem without a solution. There are a number of ways you can approach the issue:

1. Make sure you’re in the right position for baby-making sex. You want to do it in a position that puts you as close as possible to the cervix when you ejaculate. That means deep penetration. The best position for deep penetration is with her on her knees, man behind. This is commonly known as “doggy style,” and it puts you in as close proximity as possible to the cervix. Missionary position is the next best position for getting your sperm to the cervix. Penetration is just as deep as doggy style, but the angle means that you might start off a little bit farther than you would with doggy style.
2. After sex, your partner can elevate her pelvis with a pillow for 30 to 60 minutes in order to allow gravity to help your sperm make the journey.

Medical options

If you’re unable to conceive and your fertility specialist has ruled out other possible causes, there may still be options. Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a process whereby your sperm are inserted directly into your partner’s uterus with a medical device. That device, interestingly enough, bears a striking resemblance to a turkey baster.

If you’re struggling with trying to conceive, talk to your doctor. They’ll help identify whether your partner has a deep cervix, whether that’s a factor in your fertility, and whether there might be other factors that need to be addressed.