TikTok Claims Cough Medicine Could Aid in Pregnancy—Here’s the Science

The desire for biological children (conception) is deeply ingrained in many people, especially those facing infertility, which makes the allure of simple solutions hard to resist. This may explain why “the Mucinex method” has gained traction on social media.

On TikTok, many women credit their successful conceptions to Mucinex, a common cough and cold medicine, or similar over-the-counter decongestants containing guaifenesin. But how could a medication intended for respiratory relief assist in conception?

During unprotected intercourse, sperm are deposited at the top of the vagina and must navigate through the cervix to reach and fertilize the egg. The cervix produces cervical mucus, which regulates sperm passage, changing in quantity and consistency throughout the menstrual cycle and becoming most favorable during ovulation.

Advocates Claim It Thins Cervical Mucus to Aid Sperm Movement

If the cervical mucus is too thick, it can impede sperm movement. Therefore, proponents of the Mucinex method believe that taking this medication could thin the mucus, facilitating sperm travel to the egg.

The popularity of fertility tracking apps has heightened awareness of fertile window signs, including cervical mucus changes. As women become more attuned to their cycles, they may seek ways to enhance their chances of conception, viewing an over-the-counter remedy like Mucinex as a quick fix compared to more time-consuming lifestyle changes.

However, this raises questions about the efficacy of Mucinex as a fertility aid. Currently, there is limited scientific evidence supporting its use. The most referenced study dates back to 1982 and involved 40 couples with “cervical issues.” In this study, women were given 200 mg of guaifenesin three times daily starting on the fifth day of their cycle. Although 15 couples became pregnant by the study’s end, the lack of a control group makes it difficult to attribute the pregnancies solely to guaifenesin.

Additionally, a separate case study on a 32-year-old man who took 600 mg of guaifenesin twice daily for two months reported significant increases in sperm production and motility. Yet, due to the study’s limited scope, researchers could not definitively link the changes to guaifenesin.

Mucinex Manufacturer Warns: Use as Directed, Off-Label for Infertility

Reckitt, the manufacturer of Mucinex, emphasizes that the medication should only be used as directed and that using it for infertility purposes is considered off-label.

But is there any risk in taking guaifenesin to enhance fertility? While no links have been found between guaifenesin and birth defects, there is insufficient data regarding its impact on embryo development.

The allure of using an easily accessible medication to boost fertility is understandable. However, evidence supporting guaifenesin’s effectiveness for this purpose is lacking.

Instead, several lifestyle adjustments can enhance the chances of conception, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and managing stress.

For those struggling to conceive, the most straightforward and advisable step is to consult a doctor.

Read Original Article On: Science Alert

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