Has the mucus plug burst? Here's everything you need to know!

Have you heard of slime plugs and that it could be a sign that labor is about to start? Here we explain what the mucus plug is, how to recognize it and what happens when it comes off.

What is the mucus plug?

The mucus plug is already forming around fourth week of pregnancy and acts as a protective barrier between the vagina and the uterus. It is located in uterine cone (cervix) and protects the fetus against bacteria and infections throughout pregnancy.

When the cervix starts to soften, shorten or open on the eve of childbirth, the mucus plug comes loose - sometimes a few weeks before giving birth, sometimes just before.

What does the mucus plug look like?

The mucus plug may look slightly different from person to person, but it is often described as:

• Jelly-like, sticky or stringy
• Pink, brownish or translucent
• Sometimes with a small streak of blood

It can come out as a big lump or in smaller parts over several days. Some people barely notice it coming off, while others see it clearly on the toilet paper.

Mucus plug or liquefaction - how to tell the difference?

It is common to wonder if what you see is mucus plug or liquefaction.
A simple rule of thumb:

• Relocations are thin, milky white or translucent secretions.
• The slime plug is thicker, tougher and sometimes bloodstained.

A small amount of pink or brown mucus is normal, but always contact a midwife if you see fresh blood or bleeding that is more than a few drops.

How close is the birth when the mucus plug breaks?

It is impossible to say exactly how long it takes between the mucus plug breaking free and the start of labor.

For some it comes off weeks before giving birth, while for others it will at the same time as the first contractions.

If you get regular, painful contractions after the mucus plug has passed - you are likely to be in labor.

When should you contact the health services?

You will need not calling the health service just because the mucus plug has broken. But you should contact midwife or obstetrician if you:

• Ser fresh red blood (not just stripes)
• Sheep pain that does not go away with rest
• Experiencing the water has broken

Otherwise, just take it easy - your body is getting ready for the big moment.

Summary - the slime plug at a glance

• Formed early in pregnancy as protection of the fetus
• Loosens when the cervix softens before childbirth
• May be pink, brown, slimy or blood-mixed
• May come loose weeks or hours before childbirth
• Harmless and perfectly normal

It can be exciting when the mucus plug comes out. However, you do not need to contact your health care provider or do anything else because it has come loose. If you think that labor is approaching, you can look out for other signs that labor is underway! Now you just have to wait for the first meeting with your baby.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about the mucus plug

1. How do I know it's the mucus plug and not vaginal discharge?
The mucus plug is tough and sticky, often colored in pink or brown - discharge is thinner and whiter.

2. Does it hurt when the mucus plug comes off?
No, you rarely feel it. You may only notice it when you wipe yourself.

3. Can the slime plug come off in parts?
Yes, it can come out gradually over several days.

4. What does it mean if the mucus plug has blood in it?
A small amount of old blood is normal, but fresh blood should always be checked.

5. Do I have to call the birth center when the mucus plug has broken?
Not if you are fine and not bleeding freshly. Wait for other signs such as contractions or water breaking.

6. Can the mucus plug form again?
Yes, in some cases the body may produce new mucus if labor is delayed.