"Throughout pregnancy, a mucus plug blocks the opening of the cervix to prevent bacteria from entering the uterus. Before labor, this mucus plug is expelled so that the cervix can open to allow the baby to pass through during labor and birth.
How soon after my mucus plug passes will labor begin?
Passing a mucus plug is a sign that your cervix is dilating and your body is starting to prepare for birth. Labor could be hours, days, or even weeks away as the cervix gradually opens over time.
What does a mucus plug look like?
A mucus plug may be clear, slightly pink or blood tinged in color. It may be stringy mucus or sticky discharge. Some women may not even notice the loss of their mucus plug because there is already an increase in vaginal discharge during pregnancy.
When should I call my health care provider?
If the mucus seems normal in color, there is no need to contact your health care provider immediately. You may just want to let them know at your next visit.
You should call your health care provider immediately if your discharge suddenly becomes bright red and the amount is more than an ounce (about two tablespoons). You could be experiencing a complication such as placenta previa or placental abruption. "
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The text wasn't so bad... but the pic was TMI. Gross!
ReplyDeleteI think showing a pic is an excellent idea. This is my fourth pregnancy, and I had never seen the mucus plug when I lost it. So for me, it is important to be able to recognize the mucus plug. Thank you for the info!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the pic...first time mommy here so much appreciated!
ReplyDeleteThank you for this information. Because of it, I now know that my mucus plug came out this morning! To the first commentor, this is a normal part of being pregnant. It is in no way "gross". It is natural. I wish more people would share these things instead of being ashamed of something that is a natural process of the body. It is helpful to keeping oneself informed.
ReplyDeletewow, if they think this picture is "gross" they have NO idea what's in store! Thanks for the picture, it helped me realize that I too lost my mucus plug a few hours ago!
ReplyDeleteit helped me figure out what happened as well. thanks
ReplyDeleteGreat, thanks :) My plug came away in 'largish' sections with my first labour (48 hours before our little boy, Max, arrived) and I had mild cramping at that stage in time.... I never saw an 'in tact' plug so, I too, appreciate the photo. . . am now 36 weeks into my 2nd pregnancy and awaiting the evidence of 'the plug' again to signal the impending arrival of bubbie #2.
ReplyDeleteMelanie, Sydney, Aus.
Thank you for posting this and especially for the pic. It was very helpful.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the photo, I agree entirely with what has been posted on here. I'm on baby No4 and everyone of my pregnancies have been totally different. I'm 26 weeks gone and my plug has started to come away. My last pregnancy was a nighmare and I delivered a little boy at 29 weeks. Had the steroid injections in preparation for my imminent parcel of joy. Thanks again for the photo and it is no GROSS. For anybody thinking it is - all I can say is THAT YOU HAVEN'T SEEN ANYTHING YET!!!!!!!! LOL
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for the pic. Was super helpful to this first time mom.
ReplyDeletei'd have been lost without this picture! thank you for posting it.
ReplyDelete