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Several factors may affect the cervical mucus production and quality. However, hydration is often an overlooked factor. Yes, the water you drink each day can directly impact its quality. Not drinking enough water reduces both the quantity and quality of your mucus. Thus, it becomes challenging to conceive without optimal mucus production.
Understanding your cervical mucus and its importance will help you take proactive measures to improve your fertility.
What Is Cervical Mucus and Why Is It Important?
Your body produces mucus or fluids for various functions, and your cervix is no different. It produces cervical mucus. Its feel and appearance change during each phase of the menstrual cycle. It may be sticky or creamy at first.However, it resembles an egg-white consistency during ovulation. This clear and stretchy consistency is what you want when you are trying to conceive. Its main role is to help sperm move swiftly through your cervix and into your uterus. It facilitates fertilization, which leads to conception.
It can be difficult for sperm to move without enough cervical mucus or an ideal texture. Also, it may not survive long enough to reach the egg for fertilisation.
The Link Between Hydration and Cervical Mucus
Approximately 60% of your body is composed of water. Water is essential for almost every bodily function, including the production of fluids like cervical mucus.Your body tries to conserve water for its primary functions, such as blood circulation and digestion, in the event of dehydration. As a result, there is not enough water available for producing cervical mucus.
- Reduced mucus volume: You may notice very little discharge, even around ovulation.
- Thicker or drier mucus: Your mucus may be sticky or clumpy instead of a clear and stretchy consistency.
- Hostile environment for sperm: Your mucus may become acidic without enough hydration. It can be difficult for sperm to travel through.
Signs That Dehydration May Be Affecting Your Cervical Mucus
Thirst is often considered the first sign of dehydration. However, there are other signs to observe that show lower fluid intake.- Dry or sticky cervical mucus during ovulation
- Very little or no visible mucus when tracking your cycle
- Frequent headaches or dizziness
- Dark yellow urine or going to the bathroom less often
- Dry mouth or lips
How Much Water Should You Be Drinking?
The correct water intake varies based on your body, climate, activity level, and whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Generally, it is recommended to drink at least 8 glasses (almost 2 litres) of water daily.This quantity may increase for individuals living in hot climates or those who drink caffeinated beverages.
Increasing your usual water intake around your ovulation and fertile window will improve the quality of your cervical mucus.
What Happens to Cervical Mucus When You're Properly Hydrated?
Drinking enough water as per your body’s needs produces healthy and fertile cervical mucus. You may also notice the following changes in your body.- Increased cervical mucus volume
- Clear, stretchy, egg-white texture during ovulation
- Improved sperm movement and survival
- Better overall fertility signs
Other Tips to Improve Cervical Mucus Quality
Although hydration is a good start, you can also improve your cervical mucus in the following ways.Eat a Balanced Diet
Take Fertility-Supporting Supplements
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Use Sperm-Friendly Lubricants
Reduce Stress
Is Your Cervical Mucus Enough to Predict Ovulation?
Cervical mucus is a natural and obvious way of indicating ovulation by your body. If you are trying to conceive, checking your cervical mucus daily can help you identify your fertile window.A positive sign of ovulation is the presence of clear, slippery, and stretchy mucus. A dry or sticky mucus around this time may mean you are not ovulating.
You can also track your basal body temperature or use ovulation test kits along with cervical mucus to be sure about your ovulation.
When to Speak With a Doctor
If you are noticing poor cervical mucus every month, even after staying hydrated and eating well, seek help from a fertility specialist.Additionally, consult your doctor in the following situations.
- You have very little to no cervical mucus.
- Your cycles are irregular or unpredictable.
- You have been unsuccessful at getting pregnant even after trying for over 12 months.
Staying hydrated may seem like a small habit, but it makes a big difference when it comes to your fertility. Your body needs enough water to produce healthy cervical mucus. Its texture and quality play a vital role in helping sperm reach the egg easily.
Drinking enough water regularly and a healthy lifestyle give you a better chance at conception. Hydration is a simple yet effective way to improve fertility. It improves your reproductive health, naturally and safely.
FAQs on Why Dehydration May Impact Your Cervical Mucus Quality
- How quickly can drinking more water improve cervical mucus?
You may notice changes in your cervical mucus after increasing water intake within a few days. This is applicable only when you are mildly dehydrated. However, it is normal to see improvements after one full cycle. - Can I drink fluids other than water to stay hydrated?
Although you can consume herbal teas, coconut water, and fruits, water remains the best choice for you. It is free of additives or sugars that can otherwise affect your hormonal balance and health. - If I have enough cervical mucus but it’s not egg-white in texture, should I still worry?
Mucus quality and texture are both important for fertility. So, if you have sticky or creamy discharge instead of the clear or stretchy kind, it may be less fertile. Consult your doctor if the condition persists even after sufficient hydration.
