5 ways to naturally boost cervical mucus

We talk about cervical mucus every day in the clinic.  TMI?  Not possible.  

The cervical mucus that precedes ovulation is not only an incredible tool for predicting ovulation, but also plays a role in the final maturation and transport of sperm to the egg. It’s a really important, and often forgotten aspect of fertility.

The production of this fertile cervical mucus is largely a result of rising estrogen levels. If you feel like you don’t make any, or not enough, you’re not alone - your body might just need a little support.

 Here’s five science based places to start.

 

1. From the dispensary - Gan Cao, aka liquorice root

Traditionally gan cao has been an important herb for women’s health and you’ll see this sweet herb in nearly all TCM formulas.  It is considered to support yin aspects of our health, meaning it has a moistening function. 

We also know liquorice is  

  • A phytoestrogen, it gently boosts estrogen and consequently, the production of cervical mucus.   

  • An expectorant - it loosens and thins mucus. 

Practical tip:  In TCM, herbs are not prescribed singularly.  A herbalist will consider other symptoms, signs, complaints and presentation before prescribing an appropriate dose and formula for you.  Consider a telehealth consultation for the right formula and dosages.

 

 2. From the home - Hydrate

It is widely accepted that hydration plays a role in the way our body produces mucus.  If you’re often thirsty, you might just not be taking in enough fluid.

There is no consensus regarding how much water we need each day but this study looked at plasma osmolarity to estimate that 1.8L per day will keep the average body working optimally.  That seems fine, but really, there’s probably no need to over think it.

  • Controversial, but if you’re thirsty, drink.  Little and often. 

  • Room temperature or warm is better than cold.

  • Mostly water, but other liquids count.

  • If you’re on a mission to support your egg quality, be aware that sugar can slip into our nutrition through our drinks too (more on sugar on here).

 Practical tip:  Carry a glass bottle with you

 

3. From the kitchen - Increase omega 3’s.

You know we love omega 3’s for egg quality - one of the reasons The Mediterranean diet has developed a reputation for being the closest thing to a ‘fertility diet’ - we also champion fish oils for supporting the production of cervical fluid.   This 2012 study looked at breast cancer survivors with dryness due to thinning, drying and inflammation of the vaginal walls.  They found a significant reduction in self reported vaginal dryness after a 6 month course of omega-3. 

Practical tip:  2 serves of wild salmon per week gives most people adequate intake and has a well balanced omega 3:6 ratio. If fish isn’t your thing, look for a practitioner only omega 3 fish oil supplement or vegan alternative.

 

4.     From your wider support network - Acupuncture

This meta-analysis looked at 40 randomised controlled trials including over 4100 women, and found that not only did pregnancy rates improve with acupuncture, but ‘fertility markers’ including cervical mucus production increased with an acupuncture protocol.   

Practical tip:  We don’t go to the gym once and expect abs.  In your initial consultation, it’s absolutely warranted to talk about the ongoing treatment plan.   

 

5. From the vitamin cabinet - Vitamin B6, pyridoxine

Vitamin B6 is important for mucus production - and appears to have a positive impact on cervical mucus production due to its effect on estrogen uptake at the cervix.

High dosages for long periods of time can have serious negative side effects, it’s worth discussing dosages with a practitioner.  

Practical tip:  You can’t over do B6 intake through food. Foods high in B6 include beef, organ meats, fish, leafy greens, prunes, starchy vegetables.

Bonus – is there an obvious cause?

Certain substances can have a negative impact on the production of cervical mucus. Common ones we see in the clinic are:

  • Nicotine

  • High doses of vitamin C

  • Clomid (but not Letrozole)

  • Antihistamines

  • Certain sleep aids

  • Some anti-depressant medications

  • Is there something else? Possibly. It’s worth asking your medical practitioner if any other medications you’ve been prescribed could be interfering with the way your body produces cervical fluid. 

 

Now things are flowing, want to know how to use it to predict ovulation? Take a look here.

I am starting preconception care, I am trying to conceive, I am undergoing IVFJenna Mcdonald