Is thick white discharge a sign of labor?

Increased vaginal discharge: As labor approaches, you’ll notice that your vaginal discharge thickens and changes color. You may notice when you lose your mucus plug that protects your uterus from the outside world. It may come out all at once or over time.

What kind of discharge do you have before labor?

As labor begins, or several days before it does, a woman may notice an increase in vaginal discharge that’s pink, brown or slightly bloody. Called a “bloody show,” this discharge is caused by the release of a mucus plug that blocks the cervix (the opening to the uterus) during pregnancy.

What does thick white discharge mean at 38 weeks pregnant?

You may begin to notice globs of a thick, mucus-like substance in your discharge this week. This yucky stuff is called the mucus plug, and its presence is totally normal. It gets released as your cervix dilates in preparation for labor.

Can white discharge be a sign of Labour?

But, is white discharge a sign of labour? Yes, increased or thicker vaginal discharge can be a sign of labour. It might also be the mucus plug coming loose incrementally rather than all at once.

Can a mucus plug be white?

For some women, the mucus plug comes out all at once. “It looks like a stretchy glob, similar to what may come out of your nose,” says Dr. Ward. “It can be clear, yellowish white, beige, brown or pink, or tinged with red or brown streaks of blood.”

What does a milky white discharge mean when your 37 weeks pregnant?

It’s perfectly normal to have a mild-smelling milky white discharge even before pregnancy. (It’s called leukorrhea.) There’s just a lot more of it during pregnancy because your body is producing more estrogen, which signals the vagina to produce more discharge. Clear to milky white.

How do you feel right before labor?

You have likely gone into true labor if you’ve noticed the following signs, but always check with your practitioner to be sure:
  • Strong, frequent contractions. …
  • Bloody show. …
  • Belly and lower back pain. …
  • Water breaking. …
  • Baby drops. …
  • Cervix begins to dilate. …
  • Cramps and increased back pain. …
  • Loose-feeling joints.

Is white discharge normal at 38 weeks pregnant?

Normal discharge during pregnancy is clear or white, and usually a bit sticky, it should not have a noticeable odor. It’s OK if your discharge looks a little yellow on your underwear or panty liner during pregnancy, too.

What color is pregnancy discharge?

“It’s what we always get asked about.” The extra discharge is due to a boost in estrogen production and increased blood flow early in pregnancy, she says. When normal, it should be somewhat thick, clear to white in color, and odorless.

Is white discharge normal in third trimester?

You should call your healthcare provider right away, as this could be a sign of infection. So, yes, vaginal discharge is not the most pleasant thing in the world, but it is perfectly natural and you can keep it under control by making sure you’re clean and dry down there.

Is my water leaking or is it discharge?

A pregnant woman with a liquid other than urine or normal discharge coming from the vagina should visit the doctor. This is particularly true if the fluid is green, brown, or has a foul smell. Leaking amniotic fluid will usually be clear and odorless and will continue to leak.


How can you tell if your cervix is softening?

Reach to the end of the vaginal canal and feel for the texture and thickness of your cervix. If what you feel is very hard and thick, you’re likely not very effaced. If it feels mushy and thin, you may be making some progress.

Is discharge a sign of cervix thinning?

When your cervix begins to thin and relax, this plug is naturally expelled. Some women think the plug will look solid like a cork, but it is actually stringy mucous or discharge. It can be clear, pink, or blood-tinged and can appear minutes, hours, or even days before the onset of labor. Not all women notice this sign.

How many cm dilated are you when you lose your mucus plug?

Typically, a cervix that is 10 centimeters dilated means you are ready to give birth. It’s possible to be a few centimeters dilated for several weeks before labor occurs, though.

How can a doctor tell if you lost your mucus plug?

Signs that you have lost your mucus plug. The simplest way to know if you have discharged the plug is by identifying the mucus. Your mucus plug should be either clear, pink, or slightly tinged with blood (known as the bloody show). After your mucus plug clears out, labor follows.

How do you know if your mucus plug came out?

The main symptom of the mucus plug falling out is the sudden appearance of blood tinged mucus. Some people experience labor symptoms, such as contractions, when this happens. It is important not to confuse the loss of the mucus plug with other types of bleeding.