Goodell’s sign is a softening of the cervix that occurs around six weeks into pregnancy, which can be used to identify pregnancy and determine gestational age. It is named after an American gynecologist and is caused by hormonal changes that break down collagen fibers. The cervix also softens and thins during the late stages of pregnancy in preparation for delivery, and returns to its original state after delivery.
Goodell’s sign refers to a tenderness of the cervix indicative of pregnancy that appears around six weeks of gestation. Over the course of pregnancy, the cervix will soften noticeably before it begins to thin, making it possible for the uterine opening to dilate for delivery. A doctor may be able to spot Goodell’s sign during a routine exam. It, along with other indicators, can be used to identify pregnancy and determine the gestational age.
This phenomenon is named after an American gynecologist who worked in the 1900s. He contributed to a large body of research in the obstetrics field, including the description of cervical changes later named after him. In times before reliable blood and urine tests provided definitive information about pregnancies, such signs were particularly important for diagnostic purposes. Doctors have not been able to conclusively identify an early pregnancy without markers such as Goodell’s sign.
The cervix contains tough collagen fibers that normally form a solid barrier between the vagina and uterus. In pregnancy, collagen begins to break down in response to hormonal changes triggered by pregnancy. Goodell’s sign takes the form of a noticeable softening of the cervix that begins to show around six weeks. In women who aren’t pregnant, the structure should feel hard to the touch, almost like cartilage. Over time, it becomes more flexible due to reduced collagen bonds.
In the very late stages of pregnancy, women go through a process called cervical ripening to prepare for delivery. The cervix softens and becomes thinner, in a stage called effacement. Processes similar to those involved in the development of Goodell’s sign also contribute to cervical maturation. A mucus plug in the cervix works to protect the uterus until the mother is ready to give birth. It is sometimes possible to speed up the cervical ripening process to encourage women to give birth earlier, as may be necessary if there are pregnancy concerns.
After labor and delivery, uterine and cervical changes begin to occur almost immediately. The uterus locks down to prevent blood loss and returns to its original size over time. Thickening and hardening occurs in the cervix to restore its solid composition. It may take several months for the woman’s body to fully recover. If she becomes pregnant again, she repeats the same process, with the uterus expanding and softening to accommodate the fetus. The cervix and the rest of the pelvis also prepare to hold the growing baby and realign themselves to facilitate delivery.
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