Cervical mucus that a woman produces is there for a very good reason and actually assists conception. It is common for a woman to experience some vaginal dryness throughout her childbearing years, but if this continues it may make it difficult to get pregnant.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

The cervix produces different types of mucous depending on where a woman is at in her menstrual cycle. Fertile cervical mucus is produced by the cervix as ovulation approaches. Cervical mucus is necessary to support sperm transportation and allow the sperm to swim freely through the cervix. Healthy cervical mucus nourishes the sperm and supports their journey along the vaginal canal to the ovum.

LOW TO NO CERVICAL MUCOUS

Women that have low or no cervical fluid, it is harder for the sperm to reach the vagina and beyond for conception. In some cases the environment may not be conducive for sperm to sustain themselves. There are many reasons why a woman is dry. She may have developed antibodies to sperm or have some type of infection, yeast or bacterial infection or an undiagnosed STD. These symptoms should always be checked with her Doctor. 

LUBE IS COMMON

It is not uncommon for people to use lubrication during intercourse. The issue is the type of lubrication that they are using. Lubrications that contain petrochemicals may not be the best idea as these products contain chemicals that are alien to the vaginal canal and the seminal fluid. The PH of the vagina is acidic for a very good reason, a healthy vagina is naturally acidic and contains rich quantities of beneficial bacteria that help fend off infections and maintain a normal pH level. Similarly the male produces seminal fluid which protects the sperm. This fluid is alkaline. When both PH levels are optimal conditions are conducive to conception.

CAUSES

To support the production of cervical mucus it is very important to hydrate, all mucosal secretions in the body are made of water as a base. Poor circulation due to sitting all day and lack of exercise may also be a causal factor. Stress has a direct effect on the production of sex hormones and female hormonal balancing, so become aware of your levels and work on your stress response. From a dietary prospective the most promising nutrients shown to help are essential fats: ie omega 3. If you do not eat oily fish it is wise to supplement with an omega 3 nutritional product. L’arginine also plays a role in dilation of blood vessels and facilitates the transport of bodily fluids. 

AGE RELATED

As a woman ages it is natural that she experiences some vaginal dryness. It is healthy to use lubrication if this is an issue both as she will feel more comfortable. Being sufficiently lubricated also prevents the overgrowth of bacteria and yeast. The key is to choose a lubricant that is designed with the correct PH and nutrients that nourish the vagina.