How Soon After Losing Your Mucus Plug Do You Go Into Labor? — Wichita Doula
First, as your doula, we don’t have any TMI topics 😉 When you lose your mucus plug is definitely something we want to be notified of, so we can answer your questions with quality information and know that work can begin as soon as possible! Let’s talk about the mucus plug in pregnancy so you know what to expect.
What is a mucus plug in pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the mucus your body produces naturally collects in the cervix and forms a protective “plug”. This mucus plug serves to prevent bacteria from entering your uterus, where it can cause infection.
What happens if I lose my mucus plug?
Towards the end of pregnancy, your cervix becomes soft and elastic, and may open (dilate) a centimeter or two. When this happens, some of that mucus will come out of your vagina. There are many small blood vessels in the cervix, so as it dilates you will also see a smear of blood on the mucus. This is 100% normal and we call it the “bloody show”. This is a good sign of cervical development.
What does my mucus plug look like?
Like a glob or string of snot. You may find it on your underwear, or on your toilet tissue when you wipe after going to the bathroom. It may be white, clear, and possibly have streaks of blood in it (that’s normal).
How soon after my mucus plug is gone will I go into labor?
Unfortunately, there aren’t any specific “rules” about when you’ll go into labor after your mucus plug is gone! Losing your mucus plug simply means that your cervix has softened and opened just a little to allow normal cervical mucus to flow out. This means that your body is naturally doing what it should: gradually prepare for the upcoming labor.
You may go into labor on the same day, or you may not go into labor for another week. Anything is possible. That mucus will also continue to be produced by your body over time – so it can almost “regenerate” and you can “lose your mucus plug” again later!
What should I do when my mucus plug is gone!
Relax! If you have no contractions, fluid leakage, etc., you are not in labor yet. Do not go to the hospital unless you are having strong contractions, genital bleeding, decreased fetal movement, water breaking, or any other red flag symptoms. Rest, eat, shower, go for a walk, and do all your normal activities. Your body is just preparing for labor at some point in the near future, so don’t get too excited or anxious. Make sure your hospital bag is packed, your baby’s car seat is installed, etc. if labor happens in the next 24-48 hours!
