Every couple wants their own biological child. But due to the increasing problem of infertility, the dream of becoming parents of many people remains unfulfilled, or they have to take help of other methods like surrogacy, adoption. In such a situation, the claim of getting pregnant with cold and cough medicine is difficult to ignore for those couples who are going through this situation.
Recently, many such videos are going viral on Tik Tok in which women have given the credit of their pregnancy to the use of cough and cold medicine Mucinex - or similar over-the-counter decongestant medicines containing the active ingredient guaifenesin. Due to which the 'Mucinex method' is trending on social media. It is also being said to be beneficial for women facing infertility.
Effect of Mucinex on the body
Mucinex contains guaifenesin compound which works to thin the phlegm and clear the respiratory tract. In such a situation, there is immediate relief from blocked nose due to cold.
Relation between Mucinex and pregnancy
In the process of pregnancy, sperm first accumulates in the woman's vagina. Sperm has to pass through the cervix to reach the egg. Mucus is formed here, the quantity and consistency of which changes during the woman's periods. At the time of ovulation, this mucus is most suitable, which helps the sperm to reach the egg. If the mucus is too much or too thick, it can hinder the sperm from reaching the egg. In such a situation, Mucinex medicine proves to be helpful.
How much truth is there in the claim
The truth is that there is very little scientific evidence that Mucinex can help in fertility. According to a study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility in 1982, scientists studied 40 couples whose infertility was defined as a "cervical problem." The women in the study were given 200 milligrams of guaifenesin three times a day starting on the fifth day of their periods. By the end of the study, 15 of the 40 couples had become pregnant, which some may see as an endorsement of the use of guaifenesin.
It also affects sperm production
In another study, a man who took 600 milligrams of guaifenesin twice a day for two months experienced an increase in his sperm production and motility. Since this study was conducted on a 32-year-old man, researchers could not confirm that the change was due to guaifenesin.
Keep this in mind
For those looking to become parents, the idea of increasing their chances with a widely available drug is quite appealing. However, there is not enough evidence to support taking guaifenesin to improve fertility. For those who are facing difficulties getting pregnant, the best and simplest advice is to talk to your doctor.
(PC: Freepik)
