In this article:
What Is The Mucus Plug?
During your pregnancy, your cervix will form a thick mucus seal at the opening. This prevents bacteria or infection from entering the uterus and reaching the baby.
As you prepare for labour, the cervix will start to soften and dilate. During this process, the mucus plug will be released and passed from the vagina. This is completely normal and a good sign that your cervix is changing, as you get closer to your due date.
What Does The Mucus Plug Look Like?
The mucus plug can appear different from woman to woman; this can often be a reason why women question whether or not they have lost the mucus plug. The mucus plug is typically
- Thick and jelly-like in its consistency
- Clear, white, yellow, or brown colored
- Often has tinged pink or red streaks of blood in it
- May pass as one large mass or a gradual trickle over a few days
- It may be clear on your underwear or toilet paper
How Long After Losing The Mucus Plug Does Labour Begin?
This is a question most women crave an answer to, and unfortunately, it varies.
- In 24 to 48 hours, in most cases, if there is blood or contractions present. Some women report they go into labour just within the following few days.
- In 3 to 7 days, this is more common in first-time mothers and is a typical waiting time.
- In 2 to 4 weeks, in some cases, women lose their mucus plug weeks in advance of their labour, especially in the last month, due to cervical softening.
Losing the mucus plug on its own does not automatically mean you will be in labour in the near future.
Does Losing The Mucus Plug With Blood Mean Labour Is Nearer?
A bloody show is often seen with more active labour. If there are any pink or red streaks to the mucus, you will have a bloody show. Blood mixed with mucus is expected, but any heavy, bright red blood flow is not, and you should go to the nearest hospital.
Other Signs That Labour Is Approaching
Just because the mucus plug has gone, it does not mean the body is ready to go into labour. Here are the common signs you should look out for:
- Regular contractions
- Water breaking
- Pressure low down in your pelvis
- Dull, low backache that does not ease when you change position
- Clear, watery bowel movement
- Cervical dilation confirmed by a doctor
Can The Mucus Plug Regenerate?
Yes. If you lose your mucus plug before 37 weeks, the body can partially re-grow. This is why you do not need to be automatically concerned that preterm labour is definite after you have lost it. Losing the plug before 37 weeks is worth noting to your doctor; although rarely the result of preterm labour, it can be linked with some other factors.
What to Do if You Lose the Mucus Plug
Normally, there is no reason to rush to the hospital after losing the mucus plug. You should:
- Make a note of the time the mucus plug was lost. Note if there is any blood, and take notice of any other symptoms you are experiencing.
- Monitor your body for other signs. Look out for contractions or water breaking, and watch for decreased baby movements.
- Call your doctor, and inform them if you are less than 37 weeks, have any red blood loss, or are unsure about your symptoms.
When Should You Call Your Doctor?
Contact your doctor if:- You lose your mucus plug when you are less than 37 weeks pregnant.
- You notice a significant amount of bright red blood, not small pink streaks.
- Your waters break, regardless of when it occurs.
- You start having regular contractions that become stronger and closer together.
- Your baby's movements decrease significantly or stop.
- You are unsure whether a discharge is normal or have concerns about any symptoms you are experiencing.
Call your doctor if you are unsure.
It is normal to feel as if labour is near if you lose the mucus plug, as it is a definitive sign that labour is approaching. However, it is not a countdown, and many women say they do not deliver for days or even weeks. Watch out for signs such as contractions or water breaking, and do not forget to contact your doctor when necessary. Every labour is different and will happen in its own time frame.
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FAQs on How Long After Losing The Mucus Plug Does Labour Begin?
- Is losing the mucus plug painful?
Losing your mucus plug does not typically hurt. Many women do not even realise that they have lost it; you may not know until you see it appear. Some women report feeling mild cramping or pressure around the time they lose their plug, but this is uncommon. If you are experiencing severe pain, contact your doctor immediately. - What if I never notice losing the mucus plug?
This is very common; in fact, many women never notice losing their plug. The mucus plug can be lost over days in small quantities, or it may fall away in the bath or shower and go completely unnoticed. There is absolutely no concern if you do not notice your mucus plug being lost; your cervix is changing and getting ready for labour anyway. - Can I have a bath or swim after losing the mucus plug?
The cervix no longer has its full protection with the mucus plug absent, so most doctors suggest that you avoid baths after the mucus plug is lost. Some doctors also suggest that you avoid swimming after the loss of the mucus plug, especially once the mucus plug is lost and labour is nearing or if your cervix has dilated.
