Losing your mucus plug usually means your body is getting ready for labor , but it does not mean labor starts immediately. It can happen hours, days, or even weeks before labor begins.

What usually happens next

After you lose it, you may notice one or more of these signs:

  • Contractions start and become more regular.
  • Your water breaks.
  • Cervical changes continue, like thinning and dilating.

When to call a doctor

  • If you are under 37 weeks pregnant, contact your healthcare provider.
  • Call right away if you have a lot of bleeding , severe pain , your water breaks , or other concerning symptoms.

What you usually do not need to do

If you are 37 weeks or later and otherwise feel well, there is often nothing specific you need to do after losing your mucus plug.

Quick note

The mucus plug can sometimes come out in pieces, and it can even re-form , so one loss does not always mean labor is immediate.

If you want, I can also tell you what a mucus plug looks like or how to tell it apart from bloody show.