Losing Your Mucus Plug? 10 Common Questions Moms-to-Be Ask

If you’re in your last few weeks of pregnancy and notice a thick or jelly-like discharge, you may be seeing your mucus plug discharge — one of your body’s quiet signs that birth is getting closer.

Here are the 10 most common questions moms-to-be ask about the mucus plug — answered simply and clearly.

1. What is the mucus plug?

The mucus plug is a thick layer of mucus that forms in your cervix early in pregnancy.
It seals the uterus and helps prevent bacteria or infection from reaching your baby.
As your cervix starts to soften and open, the plug naturally loosens and passes out.

2. What does mucus plug discharge look like?

If you are wondering, 'how do I know if I've lost the mucus plug', the mucus plug discharge is usually thick, sticky, or jelly-like and may be clear, creamy, or slightly pink or brown. Some women notice light streaks of blood — called the bloody show.
It can come out all at once or gradually over a few days.

3. When does the mucus plug come out?

It’s most common to lose the mucus plug discharge between 36 and 40 weeks.
It can happen days or even weeks before labour starts — both are normal.

4. Does losing the mucus plug mean labour is near?

It’s a sign that your body is preparing for labour, but not that it’s happening immediately.
If you notice contractions, backache, or watery discharge soon after, labour might be approaching.

5. Does everyone lose their mucus plug?

Yes — everyone forms one, but not everyone notices when it comes out.
It may pass unnoticed, mix with regular discharge, or dissolve gradually.

6. Can you lose your mucus plug more than once?

Yes. If you lose it early, your body can regenerate it as long as the cervix is still mostly closed.
This can happen especially if it’s lost before 36 weeks.

7. Is it safe to lose the mucus plug early?

If it happens before 36 weeks, inform your doctor.
It can still be harmless, but you may need to be checked to rule out preterm labour or infection.

8. What’s the difference between the mucus plug and the bloody show?

The mucus plug is mostly thick, clear, or yellowish discharge.
The bloody show includes a pink or red tint from small blood vessels breaking as the cervix opens.
They can happen together or separately.

9. What should I do after losing my mucus plug?

Nothing special — just observe.
Keep track of colour, texture, and any other symptoms like contractions or water breaking.
If everything feels normal, it’s simply your body preparing for birth.

10. When should I call my doctor?

Call your doctor if you experience:

• Bright red bleeding (like a period)
• Watery discharge that may indicate your water broke
• Strong, regular contractions soon after losing the mucus plug

These could be signs that labour is starting or that you need a quick check.

In Summary

Seeing your mucus plug discharge is a healthy sign that your cervix is changing and your body is preparing for labour.
It doesn’t mean the baby is coming right now — but it means your body is getting close.
So, take it as reassurance: things are unfolding just as they should.