"Mucinex Babies" Are Trending On TikTok. Here's Why
A peculiar trend is taking off on TikTok: Women are claiming that the use of Mucinex, a common over-the-counter expectorant, helped them get pregnant. It sounds ridiculous, but a little known fact about Mucinex explains why.
Amanda MacGibbon recently shared her fertility journey on TikTok and highlighted her use of Mucinex as an important element to help improve her chances of conception. The comment section is full of women who are doing the same thing.
"I used Mucinex for the first time in January," wrote one user. "Currently 41 weeks!" Another wrote, "I'm 95% sure Mucinex is the reason why I'm currently 21 weeks pregnant after three years of trying." Another woman shared that she had 12 miscarriages before taking Mucinex and is now pregnant with twin girls.
An Unexpected Connection
As strange as it sounds, at the heart of the issue is the essential role of cervical mucus in fertility. Cervical mucus, which changes in consistency and quantity throughout the menstrual cycle, plays a crucial role in allowing sperm to survive and travel through the cervix to fertilize an egg. During ovulation, cervical mucus becomes more fluid and plentiful, similar in appearance and texture to egg whites, creating an optimal environment for sperm. However, different factors can impair the quality and quantity of cervical mucus, potentially hindering conception. These factors include dehydration, as well as infections, certain medications like Clomid and hormonal birth control, weight changes, stress, inflammation, poor nutrition, and low estrogen levels during the follicular phase.
Enter Mucinex, known generically as guaifenesin, which works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, easing congestion and making it easier to cough up mucus. Interestingly, some data shows that guaifenesin also improves the quality of cervical mucus, thus facilitating sperm movement and improving the chances of conception. Some doctors even recommend Mucinex to patients struggling with fertility issues related to inadequate cervical mucus. So, as strange as it sounds to have a "Mucinex Baby," it is entirely possible that the use of Mucinex has led to improved fertility in some women.
Of course, when addressing fertility challenges, it's essential to take a holistic approach. Ensuring adequate hydration (since cervical mucus is mostly water), maintaining a balanced diet rich in dark green leafy vegetables, managing stress, and incorporating supplements like vitamin B6 can all support good quality cervical mucus, as well as overall reproductive health. As with any health-related advice found on platforms like TikTok, critical thinking and further research are always necessary. And you should always consult your medical provider before adding a medication or supplement to your regimen.
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