During pregnancy, the body forms a protective barrier called the mucus plug, which safeguards the pregnancy. Understanding this natural part of pregnancy can help women feel more prepared as they approach their due date.
Understanding the Mucus Plug
The mucus plug is a collection of thick, jelly-like mucus that forms in the cervical canal early in pregnancy. It acts as a protective seal, blocking the opening of the uterus to prevent bacteria and other potential sources of infection from reaching the fetus. It also contains antimicrobial properties.
The mucus plug varies in size and appearance, and is typically described as stringy, sticky, and jelly-like. Colors range from clear or off-white to yellowish, pink, brown, or streaked with red. Pink or brownish blood often results from cervical changes as it softens for labor. Its volume is generally one to two tablespoons, and it can be one to two inches long.
When the Mucus Plug Detaches
The mucus plug detaches as the body prepares for labor, often in the late third trimester, after 37 weeks. This occurs when the cervix softens, thins, and opens. While signaling readiness for childbirth, losing the mucus plug does not mean labor will start immediately; it can happen hours, days, or even weeks before labor.
Some women may notice the mucus plug come out all at once as a single clump, while others experience it coming out gradually in smaller, less noticeable pieces. It might be dislodged during a cervical exam or after sexual intercourse as the cervix undergoes changes. If the mucus plug detaches before 37 weeks, contact a healthcare provider.
Distinguishing From Other Vaginal Discharge
Distinguishing the mucus plug from other vaginal discharge during pregnancy is important. Normal pregnancy discharge, known as leukorrhea, is typically thin, milky white or clear, and has a mild or no smell. The mucus plug, in contrast, is thicker, more gelatinous, and has a jelly-like or stringy consistency. While normal discharge does not contain blood, the mucus plug may be tinged with pink, red, or brown blood, known as “bloody show”.
Distinguish the mucus plug from a gush or continuous trickle of clear, watery fluid, which could indicate the breaking of the amniotic sac (water breaking). Amniotic fluid is odorless and watery, unlike the thick, sticky consistency of the mucus plug. If vaginal discharge changes color to green or yellow, has a foul odor, or is accompanied by itching, burning, or pain, it may indicate an infection and warrants contacting a healthcare provider. Any heavy bleeding that is more than just spotting or is bright red should also prompt immediate medical attention.