Have you heard about the mucus plug and that it can be a sign that labour is approaching when it loosens? We’ll be finding out what the mucus plug is, how you can tell the difference between the mucus plug and other discharge, and how close labour actually is when it comes loose!

What is the mucus plug and why does it form when you are pregnant?
The mucus plug is fully formed in the fourth week of pregnancy and sits like a plug in the portio vaginalis between the vagina and the uterus, as an extra layer of protection for the foetus from bacteria and infections. The mucus plug protects the foetus until the end of pregnancy and loosens around childbirth, or a couple of weeks before when the cervix begins to soften, shorten or open.

What does the mucus plug look like?
The mucus plug may look like a slightly pink or slightly brown, jelly-like substance and is often similar to discharge. The mucus plug can be thick, sticky and sometimes a little bloody. Sometimes it comes out as a big lump but it can also come out in batches.

Some people do not notice that the mucus plug is coming out because it is often so similar to discharge. Others notice that it has come out when using toilet paper.

Mucus plug or discharge?
It can be difficult to distinguish the mucus plug from discharge. Look out for thick lumps that are sticky and sometimes a little bloody. There may be a small amount of pink or brown jelly-like substance that comes out as a large lump or in smaller pieces.

It is normal to see a small amount of blood in the mucus, but you should still contact your midwife or selected maternity ward if you notice that the mucus plug contains fresh blood, which is more than just a streak.

How far off is delivery when my mucus plug breaks?
It is not possible to give a specific time from the discharge of the mucus plug until labour starts. However, you can be sure that labour has begun if the mucus plug passes while you are experiencing regular painful contractions. However, the mucus plug may come out several days or weeks before labour starts.

The loosening of the mucus plug can be exciting. However, you do not need to seek medical attention or do anything else because it has come out. Now it’s just a matter of waiting for your first meeting with your baby!