During pregnancy, a thick collection of mucus forms within the cervical canal, acting as a protective seal. This “mucus plug” helps prevent bacteria and other potential sources of infection from entering the uterus and reaching the developing fetus. Losing this plug is a typical occurrence in later pregnancy, signaling the body’s preparations for childbirth.
The Appearance of the Mucus Plug
When the mucus plug is expelled, its appearance can vary significantly in color, consistency, and amount. It often looks like a thick, jelly-like, stringy, or sticky discharge, sometimes resembling mucus from a cold. The color can range from clear or off-white to yellowish, or it may have a pinkish tint.
The presence of old blood can give it a brown or reddish hue, appearing as streaks within the mucus. However, it is important to distinguish this from bright red bleeding, which is not typical for a mucus plug. The expelled plug can be a single glob, or it might come out in smaller, gradual pieces over several hours or days. Some individuals may not even notice its discharge.
What Losing It Indicates for Labor
The expulsion of the mucus plug suggests that the cervix is undergoing changes, such as softening, thinning (effacement), or beginning to open (dilate), in anticipation of labor. While it indicates that the body is preparing for birth, losing the mucus plug does not mean labor is immediately imminent. The time between losing the plug and the actual onset of labor can vary widely, from a few hours to several days or even weeks.
When the mucus plug is tinged with blood, it is often referred to as “bloody show.” This bloody show typically signifies cervical changes, such as the breaking of small blood vessels in the cervix as it dilates.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
While losing the mucus plug is generally a normal part of late pregnancy, certain signs warrant contacting a healthcare provider. If there is significant bright red bleeding that is more than just streaks—similar to a menstrual period—it is advisable to call immediately. This type of bleeding could indicate a different complication, such as placenta previa or placental abruption.
A healthcare provider should also be contacted if there is a sudden gush or continuous leak of clear fluid, as this could signal that the amniotic sac has ruptured, commonly known as “water breaking.” Additionally, if the mucus plug is lost before 37 weeks of pregnancy, it is recommended to inform a healthcare provider, as this could be a sign of preterm labor or other cervical changes. In any situation where there are questions or concerns about the discharge or other symptoms, it is always appropriate to seek guidance from a healthcare provider.