Labor can begin at varying times after losing the mucus plug—it could be within hours, days, or even weeks. Losing the mucus plug is a sign that the cervix is beginning to dilate and efface in preparation for labor, but it is not a precise predictor of when labor will start. Some individuals go into labor within 24 to 72 hours after losing the mucus plug, while others may lose it weeks before labor begins or even during labor itself. It is best to watch for other signs of labor such as regular contractions, water breaking, and increased pelvic pressure to better gauge when labor is imminent.
