Wash your hands before checking
Check cervical mucus at the same time each day
Look for mucus at the vaginal opening or on toilet paper
Note the color
Note the texture
Note the amount
Note the stretchiness
Record whether it feels dry, sticky, creamy, watery, or egg-white-like
Track changes throughout your cycle
Use a fertility chart, app, or notebook
Avoid checking right after sex, using lubricants, or douching
Compare daily observations to identify patterns