This event consists in the expulsion of the mucus layer, which is formed inside the cervix, in the early stages of pregnancy. The function of the mucous plug is to provide protection for the fetus: by closing the cervical canal, this secretion - thick and dense - acts as a barrier against infectious agents or harmful substances that can come into contact with the uterine environment. A late pregnancy, when the cervix is "mature" and begins to dilate, the mucous plug begins to dissolve, until it comes out completely.
Therefore, the loss of the mucous plug helps to understand that the time of delivery is near: at times, it can mean that labor will begin shortly thereafter; in other cases, however, it may take a few weeks before the baby is born.
The expulsion of the mucous plug appears as a vaginal loss of gelatinous or aqueous material, whitish in color. Furthermore, it is possible to notice the presence of pink or reddish streaks, which should not cause concern: they are, in fact, small traces of blood, due to the rupture of capillaries for the beginning of the dilation of the uterus.
The loss of the mucous plug is absolutely painless and, in the last weeks of gestation, can occur in a single moment or in several episodes, even after hours or days (in the latter case, it often goes unnoticed).
While varying in composition, density and color, the loss of the mucous plug must always be kept under control, as it can provide important information on the health of the future mother and baby. Among the situations at risk, for example, there is the too premature expulsion of the cork, but also too abundant losses compared to those that characterize its release. Particular attention should also be paid when the expelled mucous material contains a lot of blood (especially if this is bright red) or has a yellow or brown color that is too pronounced.These signs could indicate, in fact, a preterm birth, a rupture of the amniotic membranes or an "infection in progress. All of these cases require prompt medical evaluation.
which contribute to the maintenance of pregnancy. Immediately after fertilization has taken place, a series of important hormonal changes occur in the woman's body, in fact, fundamental for the onset of pregnancy. In particular, progesterone induces thickening of the cervical mucus and contributes to the formation of the mucous plug. .
The density, color and quantity of secretion that is expelled can therefore vary from one woman to another.
Usually, the plug looks like thick, very gelatinous mucus, milky white in color and may be streaked with red or brownish blood (coagulated blood).
internal or sexual intercourse. With the approach of the term of the gestation, the losses of the mucous plug become more consistent and change color: from a milky white color they become pink or reddish.
