With just a few weeks before your estimated due date, you will probably be looking for all possible signs that may hint at the onset of labor. A discharge of mucus, a bloody show, or a combination of both of these events can be considered early signs of labor. Sometimes, these events may be accompanied by contractions as well. All these are regular occurrences in late pregnancy.
What is bloody show?
The name “bloody show” may sound like something scary, but it is a very common occurrence during late pregnancy in some women and nothing dangerous. Usually, the cervix is sealed with a thick mucus secretion to protect your baby from the microbes outside. When full-term approaches, your body starts getting ready for labor, by softening the muscles and bones in your pelvis. This leads to the dilation of the cervix, and as it begins to open up, the mucus plug falls out and is expelled through the vagina.
Some women may notice this if the entire cervical mucus comes out simultaneously. It is usually white and sticky and may come off as a string, which needs wiping off or pulling out with a tissue. Others may not notice this as the mucus may get discharged in pieces over time and is completely normal too.
The cervical mucus may appear brown due to blood. The cervix is made of many blood vessels, which may get damaged during the process of dilation and stretching. A “bloody show” results from this, which may also include cervical mucus and causes very minor bleeding. It is normal to have light bleeding in late pregnancy. The bloody show may be accompanied by cramping and contractions. All these indicate that labor is near but may or may not happen immediately.
Irregular contractions
You may have been experiencing mild contractions sometimes throughout your pregnancy period, or you may have them a few days before your due date. These Braxton Hicks contractions are totally normal and are preparing your body for labor and delivery. These contractions also help soften the cervix to open it up. As a result, dislodging the mucus plug when you are 38 or 39 weeks pregnant. You must not mistake false contractions for true labor contractions. False contractions do not increase in frequency or pain. So, this means that you still have some time for true labor to occur. Learn more about false labor here.
You should look out for other signs of labor when you experience a bloody show. If you have uterine contractions or water breaking, then it’s time for your baby to finally show up.
