Perhaps, every woman who becomes pregnant for the first time will sooner or later ask herself questions about what a mucous plug is, how and when she leaves, what are the signs of her withdrawal, and in general, what does it look like?
To begin with, the very process of childbirth, as well as their precursors, every woman is able to feel. Therefore, do not panic and think that cork detachment during pregnancy means that you will give birth right now before you reach the hospital. After all, the feeling of childbirth does not mean that they will happen even in the next couple of hours.
What portends a birth?
The most basic sign of the beginning of this process are the following points:
- cork discharge during pregnancy;
- discharge of amniotic fluid ;
- frequent and painful contractions
The moment when the cork in pregnant women leaves is considered the most important sign of childbirth. In this case, her departure can be bloody and happen both in a couple of hours and in a couple of days, and in some cases even a couple of weeks before delivery. And if you have cork discharge during pregnancy, do not rush to run to the clinic. Simply visit a doctor who will determine with accuracy whether your labor has begun.
Mucus plug - properties
The main function of the cork is to protect the uterine cavity, where the child is, from infections and germs. It is produced during pregnancy in the cervix. Closer to the date of birth, the mucous plug becomes less viscous, which contributes to its better separation from the cervix. This is a signal of the onset of labor, and the birth canal also opens. But nevertheless, it should be noted that this does not mean the beginning of the birth itself. In this case, it is necessary to see the attending doctor.
What does the mucous plug look like?
First of all, it has a rather viscous composition and can even move away in the form of a bloody lump of mucus. It can also be colorless, yellowish or even pinkish. It all depends on how the uterus opened and whether the capillaries burst at the same time. That is why its color in individual cases is different. There are times when a woman can detect small streaks of blood or a brownish tint in a lump of mucus, which is then accompanied by a small amount of scarlet discharge. Quite often, it is these secretions that accompany the cork during pregnancy. But in case they become plentiful, you need to see a doctor, as this may be a sign of placental abruption.
How does the cork go out before giving birth?
Symptoms that indicate cork discharge are quite similar to those that are precursors to the birth itself. Among them are the following:
- Abdominal tension;
- Uterine contractions, which at the beginning are accompanied by weak pain;
- Pain in the lower abdomen, having a aching character (most often they are very similar to premenstrual ones).
What to do after the cork mucous discharge?
During the above manifestations, a doctor should be visited. There are certain precautions to keep in mind. After all, cork discharge during pregnancy means that the cervix loses its natural defense against the external environment. During this period, you should refuse to take baths, bathe in the pool and other procedures that may contribute to the entry of microbes.
The most important thing that I would like to say to expectant mothers is that painless cork exit does not mean the beginning of childbirth. After all, after this several more days or weeks may pass, during which personal hygiene should be carefully monitored. And the most important sign of the onset of childbirth is regular contractions with increasing pain. And if you feel frequent uterine contractions, then the birth process has its beginning.