A mucus plug is a substance produced by the body during the first months of pregnancy. It serves to prevent bacteria and other microorganisms from reaching the uterus and interfering with fetal growth and pregnancy progression. The mucus plug is found right after the vaginal canal and closes off the uterus. In low-risk pregnancies, it stays in place until the baby is ready to be born.
When the mucus plug is eliminated vaginally, at around 37 weeks, it signals that the end of pregnancy is near and that labor can start in days to weeks. The plug usually has a jelly consistency and the color can vary from clear to a reddish-maroon color.
After it falls out, it is common to feel hardening of the belly throughout the day. This is usually a sign of early labor.
What a mucus plug looks like
A mucus plug is about 4 to 5 centimeters in length and has a pale, egg white-like color. The mucus plug can vary in shape, texture and color, even in a pregnancy without any risks or complication.
The mucus plug can have the following characteristics:
- Form: whole or in pieces
- Texture: egg white, firm gelatin, soft gelatin
- Color: transparent, white, yellowish, reddish or, in some cases, in earthy or brown tones
Because it has a very characteristic appearance, the mucus plug is distincly different from losing amniotic fluid. It usually does not cause pain, and can occur about 3 weeks before the expected date of birth.
What happens when it comes out
The mucus plug is most commonly eliminated between 37 to 42 weeks. In more rare cases, is eliminated during labour or during delivery.
Can a mucus plug fall out too early?
When the mucus plug comes out earlier on in the pregnancy, it is usually not a sign of any issue. It may indicate that body is adapting to pregnancy-related changes. Although the baby is more susceptible to infections during this time, the body will regenerate a mucus plug quickly to protect the uterus.
Therefore, if the mucus plug comes out or you notice pieces of it with wiping, you should not worry. Nonetheless, you should still inform your obstetrician so that you can be assessed for any risks.
If your mucus plug is eliminated after the second trimester but before 37 weeks, you should seek medical attention immediately, as you are at risk for premature labor.
What to do after you lose your mucus plug
Once the mucus plug has been eliminated, you are advised to monitor for any other signs of labor, like loss of amniotic fluid and frequent, regular contractions. Keep in mind that losing your mucus plug does not necessarily indicate that labor is starting, as it can take up to 3 weeks for it to start.