Mucous plug loss in pregnancy

Mucus plug loss is a completely normal event in pregnancy, which occurs when the neck of the uterus (also called the cervix) begins to dilate in preparation for childbirth . Not all women notice it, but if you can observe it you will know that the time to hug your baby is not that far away!

In this article, we explain everything you need to know about the mucus plug: what it is , how many weeks it is lost (and when labor starts) , how to recognize it and when to worry .

Mucous plug: what is it and what is it for?

The mucous plug is a gelatinous substance that forms inside the neck of the uterus in early pregnancy. Its purpose is to seal and protect the uterine cavity from the ascent of microbes present in the vagina, such as viruses, fungi and bacteria , preventing them from reaching the baby.

When the cervix begins to dilate (open and soften in preparation for the passage of the baby), the mucus plug is expelled  in full or gradually : this event is called loss of the mucus plug .

When do you lose?

Generally the loss of the mucus plug does not occur before 37 weeks of pregnancy , but each pregnancy is different. Expulsion can occur even days or weeks in advance of the  expected date of delivery  and even after labor has begun .

If the mucus plug is lost before 37 weeks , however, it is always a good idea to notify the gynecologist or midwife  to rule out problems, such as the risk of a preterm birth.

But.. do you always lose?

Yes, the cork is always expelled before the baby is born. However, you may not always notice, especially if the loss occurs little by little  or after labor has started .

Loss of mucus plug: how long until delivery?

Once the mucus plug is lost, it may take hours, days and even weeks (1 or 2 at most) before labor begins.

In fact , this event is not a certain sign that contractions have begun , but only an indication that the neck of the uterus has begun to dilate and prepare for delivery .

How to recognize the loss of the mucus plug?

Unlike the white discharge  typical of pregnancy, the mucous plug has a gelatinous and firm, stringy or sticky appearance.

The color can be  dull white, yellow or transparent , with possible streaks of pink or brown blood .

The amount (if lost “in bulk”) is usually about two tablespoons .

To see pictures of the mucus plug , click here. But be careful: the photographs could be unpleasant!

Mucus plug leakage: what to do and when to worry?

The loss of the mucus plug is a normal “symptom” in late pregnancy. For this, it is generally not necessary to call the gynecologist or midwife, let alone go to the hospital .

However, there are certain situations in particular in which it is important to consult a doctor :

• the plug loss occurred before 37 weeks of pregnancy. If this happens, contact your gynecologist or midwife .

• the mucus is greenish in color or smelly . These characteristics generally indicate the presence of an infection, which should be reported to the doctor immediately;

• the loss of the plug is accompanied by  profuse bleeding of bright or dark red blood, similar to a period . In this case, it is essential  to go to the emergency room immediately to perform all the necessary tests.

For any doubts or insecurity , we always recommend contacting your trusted gynecologist or midwife , who will be able to provide all the necessary answers and information. For example, they may suggest monitoring other signs of labor, such as regular, painful contractions that increase in intensity and duration .

Questions and answers

Is my child more at risk of infections after losing the mucus plug?

No, because he will continue to be protected by the amniotic sac until  his waters break.

I have lost my mucus plug: can I continue to have sex?

In the absence of particular contraindications from the doctor, it is possible to continue sexual activity until the end of pregnancy (except in case of premature rupture of the membranes ).

Among other things, many gynecologists and midwives encourage couples to have full intercourse in the last weeks of pregnancy as a “natural method”  to favor the onset of labour.