The mucus plug serves as a protective barrier within the cervix during pregnancy. This thick, jelly-like substance seals the opening of the uterus, helping to prevent bacteria and other potential sources of infection from reaching the developing fetus. Its expulsion often signals the body is preparing for labor, occurring hours to several weeks before labor begins. This is a normal part of late pregnancy, indicating cervical changes are underway for childbirth.
Understanding a Green Mucus Plug
A green mucus plug warrants immediate medical attention, as it indicates the presence of meconium. Meconium is the fetus’s first stool, a thick, sticky, dark green or black substance composed of cells, mucus, hair, and other materials accumulated in the baby’s intestines. Ideally, a baby passes meconium after birth; if passed in the womb, it mixes with amniotic fluid.
Meconium release before birth signals fetal distress, often from reduced oxygen supply, infections, or post-term pregnancy. If meconium is in the amniotic fluid, the baby risks inhaling it into their lungs before, during, or after birth. This is known as meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS).
Meconium aspiration syndrome can cause respiratory problems for the newborn. Inhaled meconium blocks airways, irritates lung tissue, and interferes with surfactant, which keeps lungs open. While many babies recover, MAS severity ranges from mild breathing difficulties to serious complications like pneumonia or lung collapse. Observing a green mucus plug means healthcare providers will closely monitor the baby’s well-being.
Other Mucus Plug Colors and What They Mean
The mucus plug’s appearance varies; several colors are normal as the body prepares for labor. A clear, off-white, or yellowish mucus plug is a healthy presentation. This indicates the protective barrier is intact and functioning without concerning signs.
A pink or blood-tinged mucus plug, known as “bloody show,” is a normal indication of cervical changes. As the cervix softens, thins, and dilates for labor, small blood vessels may rupture, leading to pink or red streaks in the mucus. This can signal approaching labor, though it may still be days or weeks away.
A brown or rust-colored mucus plug signifies old blood. This is not a cause for concern and often occurs when a small amount of cervical bleeding has oxidized. Like pink-tinged mucus, it is part of normal cervical changes leading to labor.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Contact a healthcare provider if you have concerns about the mucus plug or other pregnancy symptoms. If the mucus plug appears green, seek immediate medical consultation due to potential meconium. Also, contact your provider for heavy bright red bleeding beyond spotting, as this could indicate a serious complication.
Seek medical advice for a sudden gush or continuous leak of clear fluid, signaling a ruptured amniotic sac. Signs of preterm labor, like regular contractions before 37 weeks, also warrant a call. Other concerning symptoms, including fever, severe abdominal pain, or decreased fetal movement, should prompt immediate communication with your healthcare provider.