The mucus plug in pregnancy is a thick layer of mucus that forms in the cervical canal (1). The plug helps prevent the carriers of bacteria and other harmful microorganisms from entering the uterus and infecting the baby. When the cervix starts to dilate during childbirth and pushes the baby out of the womb, the cervical mucus plug moves into the vagina and eventually exits the body. Learn more about the mucus plug and what to expect after it comes out of your body through this post.
What Is The Mucus Plug?
A mucus plug is a collection of mucus that forms a thick layer in the cervical canal between the vagina and the uterus. The mucus, which is secreted by the uterus during pregnancy, accumulates and forms the mucus plug. It appears as a jelly-like substance, either white or slightly pink. Research has shown that the mucus plug contains high levels of immunoglobulins and phagocytes, which act as a gatekeeper for the fetus (2). The mucus has the potential for adaptive immunity, protecting the fetus against various infectious microorganisms.
Does Losing The Mucus Plug Indicate Labor?
Losing the mucus plug in pregnancy may not always indicate labor. It may mostly indicate that your cervix has started to dilate in preparation for labor, which could happen anytime later in pregnancy, although it cannot be said when (3). It is always beneficial to look for other signs and symptoms of labor that often begin in the last few weeks of the third trimester.
Lightening: By the end of the third trimester, the baby starts to settle lower down towards the mother’s pelvis (4). This process is known as lightening or dropping. It may lead to a change in the shape of your belly and frequent urination due to pressure on the bladder.
Membrane rupturing: During pregnancy, a protective layer of fluid called the amniotic sac surrounds the developing fetus. Towards the end of the third trimester, the amniotic sac ruptures due to a hole or a tear in it (5). This process is known as the rupturing of membranes. It is also called ‘water breaking’ as the amniotic fluid gushes out of the body. Image: iStock
Cervical thinning (effacement): The thinning of the lower uterine segment and cervical canal to prepare for the baby’s birth is known as effacement. During this process, the cervix gradually becomes thinner, softer, and shorter (6).
Dilation: By the end of the third trimester, the cervix softens, becomes thinner and gradually dilates to facilitate the baby’s delivery. This process of expansion of the cervix is known as cervical dilation (7).
Strong regular contractions: Muscles of the uterus may contract and relax as you approach your due date (8). When you start to experience strong contractions at closer time intervals, it indicates that you have gone into labor. These contractions gradually increase in frequency and intensity and help push the baby out of the birth canal. Image: Shutterstock
How To Know When You Have Lost The Mucus Plug?
During pregnancy, it can be difficult to differentiate between vaginal discharge and losing the mucus plug. However, you can figure out whether or not you have lost the mucus plug by either checking your underwear for signs of mucus or the tissue paper after going to the bathroom. The mucus plug is jelly-like in appearance and can either be clear or slightly pink in color. Some women lose their mucus plug all at once, whereas, in others, it can come out in small fragments over a period of a few hours (9).
What To Do After Losing Your Mucus Plug?
Losing the mucus plug is not always an indicator of labor. The time of losing the mucus plug could help you decide the next step. If you lose your mucus plug within less than 36 weeks of pregnancy, it is important to consult your doctor at the earliest and assess the condition. It might signify a complication in the pregnancy or indicate preterm labor (3). Losing your mucus plug after 37 weeks of pregnancy is considered normal as it is a sign that the cervical canal is preparing for labor. However, you must see a doctor or visit emergency care if mucus plug discharge is accompanied by strong uterine contractions, fluid discharge from the vagina, or vaginal bleeding. These signs may indicate that you are getting into labor.
What Is Bloody Show?
Bloody show is the term that is used to describe the phenomenon of the release of a small amount of a mixture of blood and mucus from the vagina (10). It is a very common phenomenon that occurs towards the end of the third trimester of pregnancy. It should also be noted that bloody show and mucus plug are not the same things. A mucus plug is mostly transparent and contains very little or no amount of blood, while a bloody show is a mixture of blood and mucus.
How Long After Bloody Show Will You Go Into Labor?
A bloody show is a sign that you will go into labor soon. However, the exact timing of going into labor after a bloody show cannot be determined as it varies from one woman to another (10). It is important to inform your doctor about the same.
