A mucus plug forms within the cervical canal early in pregnancy, serving as a protective barrier. This thick mucus acts like a seal, preventing bacteria and other potential sources of infection from entering the uterus and reaching the developing fetus. It remains in place throughout pregnancy, safeguarding the uterine environment.
What It Looks Like
The appearance of the mucus plug can vary, often appearing clear, off-white, or yellowish. It can also have pink, brown, or reddish hues, particularly due to slight blood streaking. This slight discoloration, often referred to as “bloody show,” is common and indicates that the cervix is undergoing changes, such as softening or dilating.
The consistency of the mucus plug is thick and gel-like, resembling jelly, or it may be stringy and sticky. Its texture is distinct from vaginal discharge, which is thinner. The size can range from a small blob to a piece approximately one to two inches in length, or about one to two tablespoons in volume.
Sometimes, the mucus plug may be expelled as a single, noticeable glob. It can also come out gradually in smaller pieces over several days, making it less obvious or even unnoticeable.
What Its Expulsion Signifies
The expulsion of the mucus plug indicates that the cervix is beginning to soften, thin (efface), or dilate in preparation for labor. This is a normal part of the body’s progression towards childbirth, as the cervix must open for the baby to pass through.
Losing the mucus plug does not necessarily mean labor is immediate. Labor could begin within hours or days for some individuals, while for others, it might still be weeks away. Some pregnant individuals may even lose their mucus plug during active labor itself.
It is also common for some pregnant individuals not to notice the expulsion of their mucus plug at all. The body continuously produces cervical mucus, and the amniotic fluid continues to protect the baby from infection even after the plug is gone. Its loss is one of several signs indicating the body is getting ready for birth.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
While the expulsion of the mucus plug is a normal sign of late pregnancy, certain observations warrant contacting a healthcare provider. If the discharge includes bright red or heavy bleeding, similar to a menstrual period, it is important to seek immediate medical advice. This type of bleeding could indicate a complication that requires evaluation, such as placental abruption or placenta previa.
Contact a healthcare provider if there is a sudden gush or continuous leak of fluid from the vagina. This could indicate that the amniotic sac has ruptured, commonly known as “water breaking,” which signifies a more urgent progression towards labor.
If the mucus plug comes out significantly before full term, generally before 37 weeks of pregnancy, contact a healthcare provider. This could be a sign of preterm labor or other potential complications. Any other concerning symptoms, such as severe pain, fever, or a foul-smelling or green discharge, should prompt a call to your provider.