
Losing the mucus plug is not typically harmful. In these people, the mucus did not form as strong a barrier, potentially offering less protection. The results of a 2013 study suggested that those at risk of giving birth prematurely were more likely to have issues with their cervical mucus.

The body’s ability to create a healthy mucus plug may even predict pregnancy outcomes. While a small amount of bleeding is common in labor, excessive bleeding may warn of a hemorrhage, a placental abruption, or other complication.Įmerging research suggests that the role of the mucus plug is complex. It is important not to confuse the loss of the mucus plug with other types of bleeding. Some people experience labor symptoms, such as contractions, when this happens. The main symptom of the mucus plug falling out is the sudden appearance of blood-tinged mucus.

Shortly after conception, progesterone causes cervical mucus to become denser, thicker, and more acidic, forming the mucus plug.

The cervical mucus plug offers additional protection from anything entering the cervix that could affect the developing fetus.Ĭervical mucus changes throughout a person’s reproductive life and menstrual cycle, largely due to hormonal factors. During pregnancy, it closes tightly to keep the fetus in place and help prevent infections from entering the uterus. The cervix is a doughnut-shaped muscle that acts as the “door” from the vagina to the uterus.
