About the cough medicine - Yes, you take it by mouth. (that's a relief. ) You have to get an expactorant cough syrup (just ask - they'll tell you which brand you need), because it loosens up whatever mucous is in your body, including cervical. Makes it more runny, less sticky. I have no idea whether it works or not, but I have heard of lots of women using it. (BTW you shouldn't take it when you are PG, because there is a slight risk of loosening up the mucous plug, which of course, is supposed to stay.)
All the best!