how do i know if i lost my mucus plug

You can know you lost your mucus plug if you notice a thick, sticky discharge that is different from your usual pregnancy discharge. The mucus plug may be clear, pink, red, or brown and can come out all at once as a large glob or in smaller pieces over time. It may be visible on toilet paper or in your underwear. The texture is typically thicker and stickier than regular discharge, sometimes described as similar to a "thick ball of snot." Some blood tinges in the mucus plug are normal, giving it a pink or reddish color. Losing the mucus plug is a sign that your cervix is starting to soften and dilate as your body prepares for labor, but it does not necessarily mean labor will start immediately. Labor can still be hours, days, or even weeks away. If you experience heavy bleeding, are less than 37 weeks pregnant, or are unsure about the discharge, it is important to contact your healthcare provider for advice. In summary, look for thick, sticky, mucous-like discharge with possible blood tinges, which may come out in one or several pieces, and this indicates losing your mucus plug.