The mucus plug covers the cervical opening during pregnancy, sealing it to keep bacteria out of the uterus. As the baby’s birth approaches, the cervix softens and opens and the mucus plug detaches. The plug passes through the vagina, creating a discharge that may be clear or have a pink tinge or appear somewhat bloody, hence the common name. A pregnant woman may expel her mucus plug a few weeks before delivery or a few hours before labor starts.

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