How Soon After Losing Your Mucus Plug Do You Go Into Labor?
First off, as your doula, we don’t have any TMI topics ;) When you lose your mucus plug is actually something that we like to be notified of, so we can answer your questions with quality information and have a heads up that labor could potentially begin soon! Let’s talk about the mucus plug in pregnancy so you’ll know what to expect.
What is the mucus plug in pregnancy?
During pregnancy, mucus naturally produced by your body collects in the cervix and forms a protective “plug”. This mucus plug serves to prevent bacteria from entering your uterus, where it could potentially cause infection.
What happens when I lose my mucus plug?
Toward the end of pregnancy, your cervix becomes soft and stretchy, and may open (dilate) a centimeter or two. When this happens, some of that mucus is able to slip out through your vagina. There are many small blood vessels in the cervix, so as it dilates you could also see a smear of blood in the mucus. This is 100% normal and we call it “bloody show”. It is a great sign of cervical progress.
What does my mucus plug look like?
Like a glob or string of snot. You may find it in 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 is normal).
How soon after losing my mucus plug will I go into labor?
Unfortunately, there isn’t any particular “rule” about when you will go into labor after losing your mucus plug! Losing your mucus plug simply means that your cervix has softened and opened just a little bit to allow the normal cervical mucus to slip out. It means that your body is naturally doing what it’s supposed to: gradually prepare for the upcoming labor.
You might go into labor the same day, or you might not go into labor for another week. Anything is possible. That mucus will also continue to be produced by your body as time goes by - so it’s almost like it can “regenerate” and you can “lose your mucus plug” again at a later time!
What should I do when I lose my mucus plug!
Relax! If you are not having contractions, fluid leaking, etc., you are not in labor yet. Don’t go to the hospital unless you are having strong contractions, vaginal bleeding, decreased fetal movement, broken water, or any red flag symptoms. Rest, eat, take a shower, go for a walk, and do all of 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 yet. Make sure your hospital bag is packed, your infant car seat is installed, etc. just in case labor does happen in the next 24-48 hours!