|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Summary
A Facebook post claimed that signs like regular periods and clear discharge indicate female fertility, but experts and evidence show these signs may be common during ovulation yet do not definitively determine fertility
Summary: A user on Facebook posted a video claiming that certain signs indicate female fertility. The signs mentioned in the video, such as having a regular period, clear discharge, a strong desire for sex, and slight pain during ovulation. These are common signs of fertility. People who do not experience these signs could also be fertile.
In men, it relies on healthy sperm—good count, shape, and movement.
Fertility changes with age and can be affected by lifestyle choices like diet, stress, smoking, and alcohol. Medical conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis, or low sperm count can also affect one’s ability to conceive.
Claim
On April 1st, 2025, Bekeenwa posted on Facebook that the following signs—regular monthly periods, clear, slippery discharge resembling whites, increased sexual desire during ovulation, and mild or discomfort in the lower abdomen during ovulation—indicate that a woman is fertile. She urges women to take note of the signs. The post currently has over 43k likes, 961 comments, and 466 shares.
NFM Checks
Fertility is the natural ability to conceive a child. It involves both male and female reproductive systems working properly. In women, it depends on ovulation, healthy fallopian tubes, a receptive uterus, and balanced hormones.
A regular menstrual cycle, typically occurring every 21 to 35 days. It often indicates consistent ovulation, which is a component of fertility. However, regular periods alone do not guarantee fertility, as other factors like hormonal balance and reproductive health also play crucial roles.
In regards to clear, stretchy, slippery discharge, this is a type of cervical mucus which is a fluid produced by the cervix— the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. It is crucial in the female reproductive system, especially in fertility and conception. It is often compared to raw egg whites, which usually appear during ovulation. ​
Studies by Better Health also suggest that libido may increase around ovulation due to hormonal changes, potentially encouraging sexual activity during the fertile window. ​Mild pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen is known as mittelschmerz, which is a one-sided pelvic pain that can occur during ovulation. It is generally harmless and can last for minutes to hours.
Although fertility can be influenced by various factors like ovulation, mucus discharge, and a regular menstrual cycle, these signs alone don’t determine one’s fertility status. Other factors, such as hormonal imbalances, age, or reproductive health conditions, also come into play.
NFM consulted medical expert Angela Iwendi, who disagreed with the claimants about signs that indicate fertility. She highlighted that the symptoms are common but differ in women’s reproductive systems. “Some women experience these signs and still do not take in,” she said. “It does not determine the fertility of a woman. The hormones of women react differently with or without the signs.”
Social Media Users Reacts
The claims by Bekeenwa have also generated various arguments online, with many Facebook users disagreeing based on their experiences.
“None of the above, and I get pregnant yearly,” Laliya Modeste quoted.
“Na Auxiliary nurses be the problem for this Facebook,” Ndeke-Uzoma Hillary Gozie commented.
While understanding fertility signs can empower individuals to make informed reproductive choices, it’s essential to approach such information critically. Not all women experience these signs, and their absence doesn’t necessarily indicate that they are not fertile. Emphasising a narrow set of “normal” signs can marginalise those with different experiences.​ fertility signs without proper context can indirectly contribute to societal pressures on women to conceive, reinforcing traditional roles and expectations.​
NFM, therefore, encourages that fertility awareness should be part of sexual and reproductive health education that respects autonomy and diverse life choices rather than focusing solely on conception.​
However, suppose any of these signs are irregular or absent. In that case, it might indicate an underlying issue that could affect fertility, and it’s paramount to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.
Conclusion
The signs mentioned in the video, regular periods, specific cervical mucus, increased libido, and ovulation pain can be associated with ovulation and fertility. However, their presence or absence varies among individuals and doesn’t definitively determine fertility. It’s crucial to consider a clear view of reproductive health, free from societal pressures, and to consult healthcare professionals for personalised advice.​
Naija Feminists Media is committed to fighting gendered disinformation and misinformation that concerns women.
