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If the mucus plug has come out towards the end of pregnancy, this is a sign that the birth is imminent. We have summarized what you need to keep in mind.
Mucus plug has come out: No need to panic
During pregnancy, the mucus plug protects both mother and child from infections. The mucus plug contains antimicrobial peptides and thus acts as a barrier against ascending bacterial infections.
- The mucus plug also stabilizes the uterus to some extent. It therefore also serves to prevent premature birth.
- The plug comes away when the body produces prostaglandins at the end of pregnancy. The hormones change the tissue around the cervix. This happens as soon as the baby is ready to be born. This is why the discharge of the mucus plug is usually considered one of the signs of labor.
- Sometimes the mucus plug is not discharged until practice contractions or the first labor pains begin.
- Not every expectant mother notices the discharge. This is because its size and appearance can vary greatly. You will usually feel the discharge as slightly heavier vaginal discharge.
- If there is no blood, the mucus is usually white or glassy. However, it is not dangerous if it is slightly colored because it contains small traces of blood. This is simply a sign that the cervix is slowly opening.
- The mucus plug can be discharged from the 38th week of pregnancy. However, this does not mean that labor will start immediately. It may still be days before the first contractions begin.
- So you do not need to go to the hospital right away. However, your suitcase should already be packed.
Mucus plug: Normal discharge or warning sign?
If you notice certain signs, you should go to the nearest hospital immediately. In some cases, it is advisable to call an ambulance. This checklist will help you know when medical attention is needed.
- Very early weeks of pregnancy: If the plug comes out well before the due date, i.e., well before the 37th week of pregnancy, this may indicate an impending premature birth. Studies show that in women with an increased risk of premature birth, mucus plugs are often more permeable or “porous,” which can impair their protective function.
- Unusual discharge: Yellowish-green, foul-smelling, or foamy mucus is more likely to indicate an infection. In such cases, it is also important to seek medical attention.
- Heavy bleeding: If the mucus plug contains more than just traces of blood, if you are bleeding heavily for a long time, if the blood is bright red, or if you are also experiencing pain, it is probably not a mucus plug. These signs are more likely to indicate that the placenta has detached prematurely. This would be an emergency and you would need urgent medical treatment. In this case, the baby would need to be delivered quickly by cesarean section.
- Unusual symptoms: If you also experience severe pain, fever, or a general feeling of illness, seek medical help. Even if you notice other unusual symptoms or are unsure whether it is the mucus plug or not, it is better to seek medical clarification.
- In all these cases, contact your midwife or gynecologist immediately or go to the hospital. It is better to be safe than to take a risk.
Mucus plug: Natural protection against infections
The mucus plug forms in the cervix when hormones change after ovulation.
- The mucus is composed of water, proteins, electrolytes, enzymes, defense cells, and antibodies. Its consistency changes over the course of the cycle: during the fertile days, the hormone estrogen makes the mucus thinner so that sperm can pass through more easily. After that, progesterone takes over again, making the mucus thicker.
- During pregnancy, it remains permanently thick and forms a compact mucus plug that closes the cervix. Shortly before birth, hormonal changes and the beginning of the opening of the cervix cause the plug to dissolve.
- Even though the mucus plug performs an important protective function, additional measures can further reduce the risk of infection: New findings show that infections during pregnancy can be a significant risk factor for complications and premature births.
- Professional associations recommend regular checkups and early treatment of bacterial or viral infections. Vaccinations, for example against influenza or whooping cough, also help to protect mother and child.
- In addition, general measures such as a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and careful hand hygiene can reduce the risk of infection.
FAQs about the mucus plug
Below are some important questions that are frequently asked in connection with the mucus plug.
- How long does it take for the mucus plug to come out completely? It can come out all at once or over several days. For some women, it comes out in stages, while for others it comes out all at once.
- What color is normal? The mucus plug is usually glassy, whitish, or brownish and may contain slight traces of blood. Slight reddish-brown discoloration (“spotting”) is harmless.
- Can the mucus plug have an odor? A slight odor is normal. However, a strong, foul or putrid odor indicates an infection and should be checked by a doctor.
- Does discharge always cause contractions? Not necessarily. For some women, contractions follow shortly after discharge, while for others it may take some time.
- What can I observe and document myself? Make a note of the date, time, appearance, and accompanying symptoms (e.g., pain, bleeding, contractions). This will make it easier for your midwife or doctor to assess the situation. A photo can be helpful in case of doubt – but only for medical assessment, not for your own interpretation.
- When should I go to the doctor or hospital? In case of heavy bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, very early discharge (before the 37th week of pregnancy) or uncertainty, it is better to seek clarification immediately.
Aftercare following the discharge of the mucus plug
The discharge of the mucus plug is usually a normal sign that the body is preparing for birth. Nevertheless, it can be helpful to keep a few points in mind in your everyday life:
- Personal hygiene: Practice gentle intimate hygiene, avoid vaginal douches or harsh soaps. Simple cleaning with water is sufficient to avoid disturbing the vaginal flora.
- Rest and observation: Make a note of when and how the mucus plug came out and watch out for accompanying contractions or other changes.
- Dealing with uncertainty: If you are uncertain or concerned, it is better to contact your midwife or the hospital once too often than to overlook a possible complication. This allows you to keep an eye on the situation and wait calmly until labor actually begins.
- Being well informed with midwife knowledge to go gives you peace of mind. If you know which signs are normal and when medical help is needed, you will feel well prepared for the birth.
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