The expulsion of the cervical mucus plug is common in the final weeks of pregnancy, signaling the body is preparing for childbirth. This thick seal forms early in gestation, functioning as a protective barrier within the cervical canal. Its role is to prevent external pathogens and bacteria from entering the uterus and reaching the developing fetus. When the cervix softens, thins out, and opens in late pregnancy, this protective seal loosens and is discharged.
The Physical Description
The defining characteristic of the expelled cervical seal is its unique consistency, which is noticeably different from typical pregnancy discharge. It is often described as thick, sticky, or gelatinous, sometimes resembling a glob of jelly. It may be expelled as one single piece or come out gradually in smaller, stringy clumps.
The color of the mucus plug can vary widely. It may be clear, off-white, or slightly yellow, which can make it easy to miss among the normal increase in vaginal discharge during pregnancy. It is common for the mucus to be tinged with blood, appearing pink, brown, or streaked with red, a phenomenon often referred to as “bloody show.” This reddish color occurs when capillaries in the cervix rupture as it begins to dilate and efface.
The volume of the mucus plug is small, typically measuring about one to two tablespoons in total. Because the mucus can be released gradually, many people may not notice the full amount, only observing small, blood-streaked pieces on their underwear or toilet paper after wiping. The presence of this small amount of blood is a normal result of the cervix undergoing the changes necessary for delivery.
Timing and Labor Connection
Observing the loss of the cervical seal does not mean labor is about to begin immediately, as the timing is highly variable. For some, the plug may be expelled several weeks before the onset of contractions, especially if the cervix is already softening and thinning out. Others may not notice its loss until they are already in the active stages of labor.
The distinction between the mucus plug and the “bloody show” is helpful in predicting the proximity of labor. The loss of the plug refers to the thick, protective seal coming away, which may or may not contain blood. The “bloody show” specifically refers to mucus discharge visibly tinged with blood, indicating the cervix has begun to change, dilate, or efface.
The appearance of the bloody show often suggests that labor is nearer than the loss of a clear or white plug alone. Even with the bloody show, active labor can still be hours or a few days away. It is an indication of forward progress in the birthing process, not a signal to rush to the hospital.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
While the loss of the cervical seal is a normal part of late pregnancy, specific circumstances warrant immediate contact with a healthcare provider. If the discharge occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy, report it, as this could be a sign of preterm labor. The provider may conduct an evaluation to check for potential complications.
A more concerning sign is heavy, bright red bleeding that is more than just streaks or spotting mixed with mucus, such as the amount seen during a menstrual period. This level of bleeding could suggest a complication like placental abruption or placenta previa. Immediate medical attention is necessary to ensure the safety of both the parent and the baby.
It is also important to note if the loss of the mucus plug is accompanied by a sudden gush or continuous trickle of clear, watery fluid. This could indicate the rupture of the amniotic sac, commonly known as the water breaking, which requires immediate notification of the healthcare team. Unless these warning signs occur, the normal loss of the cervical seal simply needs to be noted and reported at the next scheduled prenatal appointment.