During pregnancy, your body develops a range of protective mechanisms to support the growing baby. One of these is the mucus plug—a thick clump of mucus that seals the cervix. While losing the mucus plug can be an early sign of labor, the timing and meaning vary among individuals. Here's what you need to know about what the mucus plug is, what it looks like, and what to expect when you lose it.

What Is a Mucus Plug?

The mucus plug is a jelly-like mass of mucus that forms in the cervical canal. Its main function is to block bacteria and other pathogens from entering the uterus and reaching the fetus. This natural seal is part of the body’s defense system during pregnancy and plays a vital role in protecting against infections.

The plug contains antimicrobial properties that help prevent bacteria such as E. coli, Streptococcus, and Staphylococcus aureus from reaching the uterine environment. It typically remains intact throughout pregnancy, creating a barrier between the cervix and the vaginal canal.

What Does It Look Like?

Most people don’t notice the mucus plug until it is discharged, usually in late pregnancy. It can appear thick or stringy, with a consistency similar to gelatin. The color may be clear, white, or slightly yellow. In some cases, it contains streaks of blood, giving it a pink or reddish tinge. This is referred to as the “bloody show” and is a common part of the process.

The mucus plug can come out all at once or in smaller portions over several days. Both patterns are considered normal.

Mucus Plug vs. Vaginal Discharge

It’s normal to have vaginal discharge during pregnancy, but it differs from the mucus plug. Regular discharge tends to be thinner, more fluid-like, and varies throughout the menstrual cycle. In contrast, the mucus plug is denser and more cohesive.

Pregnancy discharge resembles the thicker type of cervical mucus seen in the luteal phase of a menstrual cycle. It is not unusual to mistake normal discharge for the mucus plug, so it’s important to look for changes in texture, color, or volume.

When Do You Lose the Mucus Plug?

Most people lose their mucus plug as labor approaches, typically during early labor. This could be several days or just hours before active labor begins. However, the exact timing varies. Some may lose it during a vaginal exam, after intercourse, or without any obvious reason.

If the mucus plug is lost before 37 weeks of pregnancy, it could be a sign of preterm labor and should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.

What Causes the Mucus Plug to Dislodge?

As the cervix softens, thins, and begins to dilate in preparation for childbirth, the mucus plug is loosened and eventually expelled. This is a normal physiological change indicating that your body is preparing for labor.

Though researchers are not exactly sure what triggers labor, the release of the mucus plug is one of many early indicators that the birthing process is near.

Is Losing Your Mucus Plug a Sign of Labor?

Losing the mucus plug can signal that labor is near, but it does not guarantee that labor will begin right away. Some may go into labor within hours, while others might wait several days.

Other signs of early labor may include:

  • Regular, intensifying contractions

  • Increased pelvic pressure or the baby dropping lower in the uterus

  • A rise in vaginal discharge, sometimes with blood (the “bloody show”)

What Happens After You Lose It?

Losing the mucus plug typically indicates the early labor phase. Here's how labor progresses:

Early Labor

This phase may last hours or even days, especially in first-time pregnancies. Contractions start to become more consistent and increase in intensity. The cervix continues to dilate and efface (thin out).

Active Labor

Active labor follows early labor. Contractions become stronger, closer together, and more difficult to manage. The cervix opens more rapidly during this stage, leading up to full dilation at 10 centimeters.

Delivery

Once fully dilated, the second stage of labor begins—the actual birth of the baby. You'll likely feel strong urges to push. The baby’s head crowns, followed by the rest of the body.

Placenta Delivery

After the baby is born, the third stage of labor involves the delivery of the placenta. This typically happens within 30 minutes of giving birth.

When Should You Call Your Healthcare Provider?

While losing the mucus plug is usually a normal part of labor preparation, contact your provider if:

  • You are less than 37 weeks pregnant

  • You experience heavy bleeding (like a period)

  • Contractions become intense and constant

  • You notice significantly reduced fetal movement

These signs may indicate complications or preterm labor and require immediate attention.

Quick Recap

The mucus plug is a vital protective component during pregnancy, acting as a barrier to keep infections at bay. Losing it is a natural part of the body’s preparation for birth and often signals that labor is approaching—though not always immediately.

Stay in contact with your healthcare provider as you approach your due date, especially if you notice any concerning symptoms alongside the loss of your mucus plug.