At my fertility acupuncture clinic in Tampa, FL, I talk a lot about cervical mucus.
Cervical mucus is a really good sign that your body is ready for some baby making time. It’s one of those subtle signs that most doctors don’t pay much attention to.. But in Chinese Medicine (and all of reproductive medicine) it’s a great indicator of your fertility potential and overall health!
What is cervical mucus
Cervical mucus is fluid that the cervix releases into the vagina. It has several functions, like preventing infections, lubricating the vagina and helping to keep sperm alive so they can make their long journey to fertilize an egg! Throughout the menstrual cycle, hormonal shifts influence the amount, texture, and appearance of cervical mucus.
When should you see more?
- Post-period (days 5–10): At first, there may be little or no discharge, but sticky, glue-like fluid may follow. This is a time of low fertility.
- Pre-ovulation (days 10–14): The body starts to produce more estrogen. The sticky fluid may thin and look cloudy. Eventually, it gets slippery and begins to look like egg whites.
- Ovulation (day 14): On the day of ovulation, many notice that their cervical fluid is very wet and viscous. A person may be able to stretch the fluid an inch or more between their fingers.
- Post-ovulation (days 14–22): After ovulation, the body releases the hormone progesterone which dries up cervical fluid. The discharge may look cloudy at first, then become thicker.
What should it look like?
Slippery & stretchy like egg whites. When it’s really healthy, you will be able to stretch it between your fingers.
How to I get healthy cervical mucus?
This is a complex question and is really going to depend on your specific case… because a lot of factors affect cervical mucus. Here are some handy guidelines, but nothing beats working with a seasoned fertility acupuncturist like Dr. Josh Hanson, DACM in Tampa, FL who can give you an individualized plan.
- Hydrate. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water.
- Eat an anti-inflammatory diet. This means lots of veggies, no sodas and as little processed foods as possible.
- Have balanced hormones. If your hormones are out of balance, you won’t produce enough cervical mucus. This is where working with a practitioner is key!
- Get acupuncture! One of the first things my patients notice when they’re getting fertility acupuncture at my clinic in Tampa, FL is that their cervical mucus changes and becomes more abundant. Fertility acupuncture can help to balance the hormones and regulate the body to optimize your fertility.
As always if you have any specific questions, I’m here to help!
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