Allergies and Cervical Mucus: What Science Has to Say
Allergies are a common problem for many people, affecting approximately 50 million Americans each year. They occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance, such as pollen or dust, causing symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes. While most people are familiar with these symptoms, what many may not realize is that allergies can also have an impact on cervical mucus. In this blog post, we will explore the connection between allergies and cervical mucus, and what science has to say about this relationship.
Understanding Cervical Mucus
Before we dive into the relationship between allergies and cervical mucus, it is important to understand what cervical mucus is and its role in the female reproductive system. Cervical mucus is a fluid secreted by the cervix, the lower part of the uterus, and plays a crucial role in fertility and pregnancy. It provides a protective barrier for sperm, helping them to survive and swim towards the egg. The quality and quantity of cervical mucus also change throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle, with the most fertile mucus being thin, slippery, and stretchy, resembling egg whites.
Allergies and Cervical Mucus: What’s the Connection?
Allergies and cervical mucus may seem like an unlikely pair, but several studies have shown a link between the two. One study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that women with allergies had a higher incidence of abnormal cervical mucus compared to those without allergies. This abnormal mucus was characterized by being thicker, stickier, and less stretchy, making it more difficult for sperm to swim through.
Another study conducted in 2017 looked at the impact of seasonal allergies on cervical mucus quality. The results showed that women with seasonal allergies had a decrease in fertile mucus during their allergy season compared to non-allergic women. This could be due to the inflammation caused by allergies, which can affect the glandular cells that produce cervical mucus.

Allergies and Cervical Mucus: What Science Has to Say
The Role of Histamine in Cervical Mucus
Histamine is a chemical released by the immune system in response to allergens. It is responsible for many of the symptoms associated with allergies, such as sneezing and itching. But histamine also plays a role in the production and quality of cervical mucus. Studies have shown that histamine can alter the composition of cervical mucus, making it thicker and less hospitable to sperm. This can make it more challenging for couples trying to conceive, especially during peak allergy season.
Treating Allergies and Its Impact on Cervical Mucus
If you suffer from allergies and are trying to conceive, you may be wondering how you can improve the quality of your cervical mucus. The first step is to manage your allergies effectively. This may involve avoiding allergens, taking over-the-counter medications, or consulting with an allergist to develop a treatment plan. By controlling your allergies, you can reduce the amount of histamine in your body, which can improve the quality of your cervical mucus.
In addition to managing allergies, there are also some natural remedies that can help improve cervical mucus. One study found that taking a supplement containing N-acetylcysteine, a powerful antioxidant, and bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapples, can improve the quality of cervical mucus and increase the chances of conception. Additionally, staying hydrated and consuming a healthy, balanced diet can also have a positive impact on cervical mucus.
The Bottom Line
While the connection between allergies and cervical mucus may not be widely known, research has shown that allergies can indeed have an impact on the quality and quantity of cervical mucus. If you are trying to conceive and suffer from allergies, it is essential to manage your allergies effectively and consider natural remedies that can help improve cervical mucus quality. Consulting with your doctor or a fertility specialist can also provide valuable insight and guidance in navigating this issue.
In summary, allergies and cervical mucus have a complex relationship, with allergies potentially causing changes in the quality and quantity of cervical mucus. By understanding this connection and taking steps to manage allergies and improve cervical mucus, couples can increase their chances of conceiving.







