A mucus plug is very thick, snot-like mucus lodged in the cervix that acts as a physical and antibacterial barrier between baby and the outside world.
In this post we discuss everything one needs to know about the plug of mucus. I hope you have a strong stomach, as I’ve included photos. Scroll down at your own risk. 😉
Let’s get started!
Mucus Plug 101: Who? What? Where? When? Why? (With Photos)
Where Does the Mucus Plug Come From?
The mucus plug does not come from the vagina, or inside the uterus, but from the cervix. For the majority of pregnancy, the mucus plug stays in one place – the cervix – until just before and/or during birth.
The cervix is the opening to the uterus, which is the amazing muscle baby grows inside during pregnancy.
The coolest thing about this plug of mucus is that not only acts as a physical barrier, protecting the unborn baby from the outside elements, but it also has antibacterial properties that actually kill harmful bacteria in the vagina (source, source) further protecting baby.
How cool is that?
When Should the Mucus Plug Come Out?
Whether you see it happen or not, the plug comes out at some point before a baby is born.
- Some women experience the loss of the mucus plug as a symptom of preterm labor (before 37 weeks).
- Some women lose theirs a week or two before labor begins.
- And some mucus plugs come out days/hours before labor or even as labor unfolds.
The most common place a woman will see her plug is when she uses the bathroom. If you’re close to your due date, don’t be surprised to find a glob of thick mucus on the toilet paper after you wipe! The mucus plug can also drop in the toilet bowl while you’re going to the bathroom, so if you’re curious don’t forget to look there too.
Many women, however, don’t even notice their mucus plug. This may be because she didn’t look for it, or a more likely scenario is because the plug thinned out and became watery discharge. This discharge, called leukorrhea, is more like normal pregnancy vaginal fluid and less like a plug.
Why Does the Mucus Plug Come Out?
Towards the end of pregnancy and/or during labor, the cervix thins (effacement) and opens (dilates) which dislodges the mucus plug.
As labor progresses more and more mucus plug may come out. During labor it is most often seen while using the toilet or after a vaginal exam.
Why Does the Mucus Plug Regenerate?
As odd as it may sound, the mucus plug can regenerate and replace what was previously lost. For example, a woman may lose her mucus plug, grow a new one and give birth a few weeks later.
In my opinion, if a mucus plug is lost closer to 37 weeks and labor does not begin for another few weeks, odds are the mucus plug regenerated. Hooray for more mucus!
Also, in my opinion, the reason it regenerated is because it just wasn’t time for baby to be born and baby still needed those extra layers of protection.
If you are experiencing the loss of a mucus plug over a period of days closer to 40 weeks, you’re likely not regenerating more mucus plug, it’s just taking days for it to come out. Isn’t this fun?!
When the Mucus Plug Comes out How Long till Birth?
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but losing the mucus plug does not mean that labor will start right now. Ladies, if you lose your plug, don’t get your hopes up that labor will begin TODAY. Losing the mucus plug in and of itself does not mean that labor is immenent.
All the loss of a mucus plug can tell someone is that they’re going to have a baby “soon”. However, you likely already knows this as most women losing their plug are closer to 40 weeks gestation.
Losing the mucus plug along with other signs of labor is a better indication that it’s baby time.
For example, if you go to the bathroom, wipe and see mucus plug AND begin to have contractions 5-7 minutes apart there’s a good chance that labor is imminent.
FYI: Towards the end of pregnancy, vaginal exams, stripping the membranes and sexual intercourse can dislodge the plug. After any of these activities women may experience more mucousy discharge than normal, sometimes tinged with blood and sometimes without.
What Color Is the Mucus Plug?
The mucus plug comes in a variety of colors: clear, opaque, red blood tinged, brown blood tinged and mixture of all of the above. Scroll down to see photos!
Note: If there is more blood than mucus, a blood vessel in the cervix likely broke. However, err on the side of caution and contact your care provider. Any bleeding in pregnancy, labor and delivery should always be discussed with a care provider.
What Does the Mucus Plug Look Like?
Many people describe a plug of mucus like snot on a tissue from blowing the nose. To me, however, it looks more like the snot that comes from blowing the nose when one has an upper respiratory infection (minus the green color indicative of infection). Just sayin’.
Below is a photo of a plug that is clear. Notice how thick in consistency the mucus is. If you are experiencing a much thinner consistency of mucus there is a possibility it could be normal vaginal discharge or even semen, instead of a plug.
Here are a couple more mucus plugs that are more opaque than clear.
Below is another photo of chunk or part of a plug of mucus. Many women loose pieces or chunks of their plugs over a few days.
Are Mucus Plugs and Bloody Show the Same Thing?
I often hear the terms bloody show and mucus plugs used interchangeably. But are they actually the same thing?
Here’s the deal: Bloody show always contains mucus plug but mucus plug isn’t always bloody show.
Here’s why: As the cervix dilates and effaces before and during labor, tiny blood vessels break causing blood to mix with the mucousy discharge. If no blood vessels break as the cervix opens (highly unlikely), a woman won’t experience bloody show.
Below are photos of bloody show. Notice how the color of the show varies from light pink to brownish red. The lighter the tinge of blood the more recently the blood vessel has broken. Darker tinged bloody show indicates older blood.
Mucus Plug and Group B Strep
Losing the mucus plug with a positive result for group b strep does not alter the protocol for a woman in labor. Follow your care provider’s instructions for treatment of GBS+ during labor as indicated.
Mucus Plug Warning Signs
If you experience any of the following, contact your care provider to gather more information and discuss your options.
- Scheduled cesarean + loss of plug
- Loss of plug before 37 weeks
- Foul smelling plug of mucus
- Loss of the plug accompanied by bleeding
What Were Your Experiences With Mucus Plugs?
Ok ladies, let’s hear from you! Leave a comment and tell us your experience with mucus plugs. I’d love to hear your story!
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Elizabeth says
I lost my mucus plug after a cervical check at my 37-week appointment. Since labor didn’t start until I was 39 +2, I’m guessing I regenerated another mucus plug.
Kristen says
I’m losing it slowly. When I wipe I see it. It looks like clear jelly. My doctor saw some yesterday to. When she examined me. I am 2 cm dialed and 70% thinned out. I am now 37 weeks. Baby is measuring bigger though.
Kenzie says
Same but I’m 40 weeks today
Nj says
How long after did you go into labor?
Ron says
Oh lord. And frightened when bloody mucus comes out of my nose. Ok, thanks for the sight and pictures, it was very informative.
Glory says
Well my only experience 9yrs ago, was with the bloody mucus plug at 38 weeks it was A LOT!!.For me was an imminent labor. It came out at 7am with no pain, went back to sleep til’ 11am. Wake up with the urge to pee, and it was a little blood in a pad, call the Dr. Took a shower, i dilated 3cm. With contractions every 1 1/2hr and 2hrs. At 3pm went to the hospital with 4.5 cm….and my big boy now was born at 10:45pm. A fast natural labor, 1st time mom.❤
Elsa says
That helps me a lot thank you. I am 40 weeks and 2days and seen clear mucus plug after some period like contraction tonight. Waiting for the real construction, fingers crossed.
Lisa says
Did you go into labor on your own?
Ariana says
I just lost my my mucus plug and no signs of contractions yet.. I’m 40 weeks and 1 day.
Monique says
I just lost my mucus plug and i am 40 +2, what does that mean, go to hospital now?
Crystal J. says
I know this reply is too late for you, but maybe someone else will need an answer.
No, don’t go to the hospital yet. It could mean the start of labor or not. take several heavy pads with you and have your phone ready in case your water breaks. Tell your birth partner or labor support people. Install your car seat and pack your bag if you haven’t done so already. I would wait to go to the hospital until regular contractions are 5 minutes apart or closer and one minute long, especially for a first baby. I know it’s very exciting, but try to relax, rest, eat and stay hydrated.
Jhenschen says
I’m 38 weeks and 6 day. In the first time I just loss my mucus plug, and every other day I take a bathtub then more loss mucus plug. But I haven’t pain.
Dee says
Have you had the baby yet? My daughter is 38 weeks, 5 days and lost her mucus plug today. She’s not having any contractions.
Yellieyellsz says
38 weeks 5 days here…just lost mine so we will see
Smidge says
I am 36 weeks plus 5 days even though I’m closer to 37 weeks do i still need to let someone know I lost my plug last night? I measure 2 weeks ahead.
Chris says
Exactly in the same situation as you were… I’m 36 weeks and 3 days, but baby measuring 2 weeks ahead and lost mucus plug last night. What was your experience? When did you deliver? Did you contact your physician. I have my next appt tomorrow… do you think it’s ok to wait or should I call her today?
Britt says
What ended up happening? I’m in the exact same situation right now!
Shawna says
Im 36-5 and lost my mucus plug. Been having contractions since saturday. But at my appointment yesterday I was only a cm dilated. I am scheduled C-Section. Any suggestions ?
Sylvia Purcell says
I am 38 weeks and all of a sudden was having contractions that were way more painful than usual. I have been having Braxton Hicks since the end of my second trimester will into my third trimester. So I could tell the difference these were much stronger. I had been to my check up and I was 1.5 dilated and my cervix is soft. So after a couple zinger contractions I had to go pee really bad and when I wiped there it was. This was sat night and I am scheduled to go in for an induction Monday. I have had more contractions but not regular so we will see if we go in early or wait till Monday.
CHarleey says
Hi, it’s a late reply but this exact thing Ian happening to me, what happened after you lost you’re plug?
Carly says
Can you have mucus plugs without being pregnant?
I was thirteen when two little pillows of white came out and the dr called them mucus plugs. My Gp Sent meto a Gyn Who told my mother I had an infantile uterus and would never have children.
Mackenzie money says
I’m so sorry! That’s awful. If doc said that’s what it was most likely, it was. But, on the bright side. I was told i couldn’t have children at 16, I’m 25 and I have a 6 year old daughter, and I am pregnant with my second, a boy 21 weeks today! Horray! Only God knows who can and cannot bear children. Keep your head and hopes high. Sometimes doctors are wrong.
MARLee says
I had my membranes stripped at my 38w 1d appointment on Thursday feb 8th. Had a little bit of mucus plug loss yesterday morning with blood on Sunday feb 11th then just lost some more this morning, Monday’s feb 12th. Today I am 38w 5d. Really hoping labor is as soon as today. Fingers crossed.
SAHdz hervilla says
My mucus plug is coming out my nose left nostril . I remember taking my medication for depression and that very first pill on top did something inside my belly and it felt like it turned my whole insides into the opposite direction this was weird but is there any way you can explain what might be going on with me . I been having sex with my husband who is now passed but for years I never got pregnant and I remember his mom telling me “ no more babies” which was wrong who is she to tell me that . She probably had this done to me. I never used contraception yet my husband had a affair n got that woman preganant. Not to mention after my third child I got pregnant but I lost it . I took a pregnancy test which came out positive . I think they gave me plan b at that time I was sniffing stuff for all u know I sniffed planned b lost the baby I must have been about five weeks. I had painful miscarriage nurse said for me to just lay down n rest when I went to the restroom it came out it was a pretty good size fetus in the toilet . I went to hospital a day or two later n they did pelvic ultrasound claiming I wasn’t pregnant well of course I wasn’t i had already had the miscarriage. He didn’t want kid . He left me that night in pain at home while he went out with his friend. Anyway the whole flipping of my insides didn’t happen until I gave birth to baby number 5 it would have been 6 . But yeah can anyone explain what may be happening . This is uncalled for .
SAHdz hervilla says
Lol my story sound weird and somewhat strange but it’s the honest truth. Please if u know anything or if ur a doctor can I give me a little bit of info that u think might be going on
Kailie says
Had pink discharge at 35 + 4 and proceeded to have a mixture of pink/clear/brown discharge the next day. Third day I woke up and had a glob with blood tinges and another clot later that day. Called doctor she said keep an eye out for contractions or a gush of fluid. Yesterday was mild with brown ish discharge most of the day then more blood tinges when whiping today and saw another clot in the toilet earlier. Hope little man stays cooking a little longer. Have my appointment on Tuesday to check my cervix, fingers crossed we don’t have too much longer though!
Jasmine Major says
I think I’m having the same problem. I’m 35 +1. I just woke up with contractions, irregular ones. (Braxton Hicks) I guess ! Then I went to go pee. Pee I didn’t feel anything come out but when I wiped I was spotting, whipped again and was still spotting. So I stood up and it seemed to be a clot of blood or something in the toliet but it wasn’t like the clots you get from your period more blood and clear
Kingston's mom says
I lost mine at 35 weeks, and like you said, you should call your doctor if you lose it before 37 weeks. My doctor said it’s not a big deal, and to just leave it alone unless your water breaks or contractions start.
Jen says
I just lost mine this morning, only it’s n0t a bloody show but really it was kinda huge amt of mucus. I’m at 38 weeks +2 today. I had an ie w/ my doctor last Monday and was surprised I’m at 4cm dilated, 25% effaced (No pain, no contractions or whatsoever), until now.
Shannon says
Did you go into labor?
Shannon says
I lost mine this morning, my doctor did a stretch and sweep of my cervix 2 days ago, think that sped things up a bit. I’m 39 weeks today, first pregnancy, and having contractions about once an hour. Fingers crossed things progress smoothly cause I want to meet my little dude!
Hellen says
I lost mine last week, 36 weeks and nothing happened. I think it replaced itself
Bettye says
When does the mucus plug form, how soon after conception?
Dawn says
It’s formed around week 12
Ally says
I am 35 weeks & 6 days, I have my appointment tomorrow for routine check, I went to the bathroom today and wiped and had some mucus with a tinge of brown in it, it is my first pregnancy, does contractions & labor happen soon after or can it be while?
Lindsey says
By itself, it doesn’t mean much of anything. Sorry!
SANGITA says
I lost bloody mucous plug two times after PV stripping.
Doctor has already mentioned to me not to worry unless and untill I have continous bleeding or any other particular signs of labor
Sabrina Scraver says
I am only 32 weeks and 3 days and have been losing my plug slowly. I must have a very thick plug because I will wipe at least 3x a day with large amounts of mucus. Has been going on for 2 weeks now.
Meghan says
Iost mine at 20w, and ended up having my daughter at 33w.
Kayla Mcduffie says
I’m 33 week n 4 days n hurting in my back legs hips leaking a little water here n There was everything ok with ur baby when u had it at 33 week
Rocio says
I just lost mine. It scared me because all my symptoms with my first born are so different than my 2nd, this one being a girl. Am 39ws. We will see what happens since mines was brown/reddish discharge and my baby girl is 2 cm down already since 2 weeks or so ago.
Wish me luck!
Jessica says
Just lost mine last night. I am also 39 weeks with my second and having a girl. Did you end up having her?
Harley says
I’m 21 weeks 5 days and I lost my mucus plug at 21 weeks!! I called both my doctors regular and high risk and they have done nothing!! Should I be worried??
cassandra says
This all has helped alot…thank u!!! Second time mum but both pregnancies were dfrnt…38 weeks and a few days now and just had my first discharge…but my mums travelling nd sister is not here yet so hoping it’ll be the case of 1 or 2 weeks before i go into labour…lol…
thanks again to all you beautiful mothers out there willing to share your experiences with those of us who are starting this new journey of motherhood ♥♥♥
Mildred says
Thanks alot, this has been very helpful…am a first time mum and lost mine 2days ago and i have been having irregular contractions, especially during night time, am 39 weeks 6 days… Hoping to see my princess ASAP
Kk says
I lost my mucus plugs piece by piece during 37th week. I had had weak period cramps for few weeks before.
I’m currently 38+5 and still in one piece. Baby is sitting low and I have some pressure down but still no contractions or other signs of labor. Have heard that it’s more common to lose plug and go into birth several weeks after than several hours later. Although I hope baby will decide to get out all soon!!!
Oh and mine was completely milky or even clear.
Lucky says
I’m 23 weeks and 5 days today and 2 nights ago me and my fiancè had sex and right after i passed this very tiny bit of blood or something I’m not sure what it was exactly and last night i had a dull beach pain and sharp pains in my stomach that went across my whole stomach and i called the hospital I’m going 2 have my little girl at and they told me 2 take some benadryl 2 see if that will meme the pains go away and it did but now I’m starting 2 hurt a pile again im wondering what do you think o should do… This is my 3rd pregnancy but i lost the other 2 before they were considered a fetus…
Lindsey says
Check in with your care provider. It never hurts to go in and get checked out!
toni says
i am 32 w 5 days and have been having cramps and pressure since sat. they arent consistent but i think i lost part of my mucus plug today. i called my ob and nurse said it sounds like normal discharge which i dont think it was it looks like the top pics clear and thick. whats ur guys opinion
Andrea says
I am 34 weeks with my 5th child, I have been in a lot of cramping pain and pressure for last 2 days chunks of mucus coming out all day today no blood trying to just wait it out. My 1st child I lost my mucus plug at 6am lightly blood tinge not a lot had no contractions went to the hospital water broke and deliver baby I was only 22 weeks. My other 3 pregnancys I never saw mucus water busted kids came. If you ever have any doubts even when you call ahead go get checked out, example was my 1st child the Dr swore I wasn’t having a baby that day showed her I was right. NOBODY KNOWS YOUR BODY BETTER THAN YOU
Angela Thomas says
I am 24 weeks and lost my plug today! No contractions just a lot of pelvic pressure. I’m nervous and scared. What are the chances of the mucus plug regenerating vs going into preterm labor? Do I have cause for worry?
Freckles says
I lost a small piece of my mucus plug at 39 weeks and then nothing until today. I’m 40 weeks and 6 days pregnant today and just lost the rest of my plug after my hubby and I did the deed lol. No bloody show and I haven’t had any contractions prior to losing my plug. I’m scheduled to be induced on Tuesday and I’ll be 41 weeks and 1 day, fingers crossed I have a bloody show tomorrow or Monday and skip being induced! At my appointment this week I was 1.5 cm dilated and 70-80% effaced.
Patricia says
Did you have to be induced? Currently 40+5 and being induced at 41+2 and have been losing mine the last 3 days. I’m praying baby comes the next few days.
Veronica says
I’m 40 weeks and 4days today and I’m 1 1/2 cm dilated 90%effaced. I want natural but I’m getting induced tmw. And I get light cramps at night n my mucus plug been comin out since last week.
Tash says
I had a stretch and sweep at 39+5weeks and I had a bloody show. That night I went into labour started losing my mucus plug with bloody show every 30-60mins until the next day at 11am when it finally stopped. It was big chunks not a small. As I had a small clear bit at 36 weeks with pain. So I must grown mucus plugs really quick. The amount that came out I could fill a cup almost. I gave birth at 40weeks. I had a slow labour
Ellis Reising says
i had a miscarriage and am having this kind of discharge.. does anyone know what that means? or has anyone else dealt with that? i’d be due end of the month..
Anna says
I guess i lost my mucus plug yesterday but i’m not pregnant! Is that even possible? I’m a bit freaked out!
Jordana says
I lost my mucus plug arbor 32 weeks , but hadn’t no idea what it was ( this was my first pregnancy at 17 ) Anout eight hours later my water broke and I delivered two hours later. 12 years later I’m now pregnant with my second child with a scheduled C-section and hoping I can at least get to 38 weeks
Joanne says
37 wks and 5 days: Over the span of 4 days I’ve lost what looks like the full mucus plug… TWICE! STILL no signs baby is cooking…so far but definitely ready to meet this little human I’ve been cooking up inside of me. The waiting game has always been my weakness!