Many TikTok videos recommend Mucinex for pregnancy.
Here’s what research and fertility experts think of the claims and the possible risks.
Yup, Mucinex, as in the cold and flu medicine.
Some creators aresharing positive pregnancy testsafter trying the Mucinex method.
While thats great for them, is this hack one that will work for everyone experiencing fertility challenges?
Well+Good asked an OB-GYN and fertility expert for their insights into the truth behind the claims.
fertility expert with Columbia University Fertility Center
And its also true that swimmable cervical mucus is a key aspect of fertility.
Cervical mucus around the time of ovulation becomes wet and slippery.
She points to a small 1982 study inFertility and Sterility1that actually researched guaifenesins effect on cervical mucus.
Plus, there was no control group to compare the results against.
However, patients must see their fertility doctor to determine if Mucinex may be beneficial in their case.
Its crucial to know the potential risks, too, especially if you do get pregnant.
fertility expert with Columbia University Fertility Center
According to theAmerican Academy of Family Physicians, guaifenesin might be unsafe during the first trimester.
If taking Mucinex, it must beMucinex plain(with only guaifenesin), Dr. McConnell says.
The bottom line
Whether or not Mucinex really helps with pregnancy is up in the air.
Rather, Dr. McConnell says, its used off-label for pregnancy and its benefits are anecdotal.
It is important that we clarify that Mucinex should only be used as intended in line with label directions.
Taking Mucinex for infertility constitutes off-label use, Reckitt told Well+Good in an email statement.
Taking any medications outside their approved indications or without acknowledging all active ingredients may be harmful.
In case of doubt, we recommend women have a discussion with their healthcare professional.
Other thanstaying hydratedand scheduling sex around ovulation, seeing a specialist is a great ideabut at what point?
According to Dr. Lipinski, it depends on the situation.
If the woman is over 35 years of age, then seek evaluation after six months of trying.
Dr. McConnell also encourages paying attention to what your cervical mucus looks like.
reviewed byAndrea Braden, MD, OB/GYN
Check JH, Adelson HG, Wu CH.
Improvement of cervical factor with guaifenesin.
1982 May;37(5):707-8. doi: 10.1016/s0015-0282(16)46287-4.
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