Mucus Plug During Pregnancy: What It Is & What It Means
13 Apr 2025
If you're nearing the end of pregnancy, you may have heard about the mucus plug—but what exactly is it, and what does it mean when you lose it?
The mucus plug is a thick, jelly-like collection of mucus that seals the cervix, protecting your baby from infections.
Losing the mucus plug can be a sign that your body is preparing for labor—but it doesn’t always mean labor will start right away! Let’s dive into what the mucus plug looks like, when you might lose it, and what to do if it happens.
It prevents bacteria from entering the uterus, keeping your baby safe.
As your cervix begins to soften and dilate (open up) in preparation for labor, the mucus plug is released. Think of it as a natural seal that protects your baby until your body is ready for birth!
Clear, white, yellowish, or slightly pink
May contain streaks of blood ("bloody show") It may come out all at once (a clump) or gradually over several days. If you notice bright red bleeding (more than spotting), contact your doctor immediately—it could indicate complications like placental issues.
Can happen weeks, days, or hours before labor.
Not all women notice losing it—it may come out gradually during normal discharge. If you lose your mucus plug before 37 weeks, call your doctor, as it may indicate preterm labor.
Some women go into labor within hours or days after losing the mucus plug.
Others may not go into labor for another 1-2 weeks. If you lose your mucus plug but have no contractions, labor may still be a little while away.
Severe cramping or intense contractions.
Your water breaking (a gush or trickle of fluid).
Mucus plug loss before 37 weeks (could indicate preterm labor). Losing the mucus plug alone isn’t an emergency—but if it’s accompanied by other labor signs, it’s time to get ready!
Losing the mucus plug can be a sign that your body is preparing for labor—but it doesn’t always mean labor will start right away! Let’s dive into what the mucus plug looks like, when you might lose it, and what to do if it happens.
What Is the Mucus Plug & What Does It Do?
The mucus plug forms in the cervix early in pregnancy, creating a barrier between your uterus and the outside world.It prevents bacteria from entering the uterus, keeping your baby safe.
As your cervix begins to soften and dilate (open up) in preparation for labor, the mucus plug is released. Think of it as a natural seal that protects your baby until your body is ready for birth!
What Does the Mucus Plug Look Like?
The mucus plug can vary in color, texture, and size, but it's usually: Thick, sticky, or jelly-likeClear, white, yellowish, or slightly pink
May contain streaks of blood ("bloody show") It may come out all at once (a clump) or gradually over several days. If you notice bright red bleeding (more than spotting), contact your doctor immediately—it could indicate complications like placental issues.
When Do You Lose the Mucus Plug?
Typically lost in the third trimester (weeks 37-40+).Can happen weeks, days, or hours before labor.
Not all women notice losing it—it may come out gradually during normal discharge. If you lose your mucus plug before 37 weeks, call your doctor, as it may indicate preterm labor.
Does Losing the Mucus Plug Mean Labor Is Starting?
Maybe—but not necessarily!Some women go into labor within hours or days after losing the mucus plug.
Others may not go into labor for another 1-2 weeks. If you lose your mucus plug but have no contractions, labor may still be a little while away.
When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your doctor if you notice: Bright red bleeding (more than spotting).Severe cramping or intense contractions.
Your water breaking (a gush or trickle of fluid).
Mucus plug loss before 37 weeks (could indicate preterm labor). Losing the mucus plug alone isn’t an emergency—but if it’s accompanied by other labor signs, it’s time to get ready!
