What should you know about the mucus plug and water breaking?

The mucus plug is thick mucus from the cervix. It may appear clear, pink, brown, or streaked with a small amount of blood, and it can come away in one piece or gradually. Waters breaking means the membranes around the baby have opened, allowing amniotic fluid to pass. The fluid is often thin and watery and may continue to leak when you move, cough, or change position. Urine and normal vaginal discharge can feel similar, so an examination may be needed.

If you think your waters have broken, note the time, fluid colour, smell, and amount. Use a clean maternity pad rather than a tampon, and contact your maternity unit for instructions. Do not put anything into the vagina until you have been assessed. If only mucus has passed and you feel well, mention it at your next appointment, unless your maternity team has given different advice.

Contact maternity services urgently for suspected fluid leakage, especially before your due period, or if the fluid is green, brown, or foul-smelling. Seek immediate help for heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, fever, regular contractions, feeling very unwell, or reduced fetal movement. Preterm waters breaking requires prompt assessment because it can be associated with preterm labour.

Ask how to identify fluid leakage, which maternity number to call, what to do if the pad becomes wet again, and how your pregnancy will be monitored if the membranes have opened.