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Childbirth/removal of mucous plug

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Expert: - 4/16/2009


Question
i am 40 weeks pregnant with my second child.the pregnancy has progressed with no problems.i was induced with my first child as i was 10 days over due but my mucous plug fell out at 39 weeks.if i still have not had a show by the time i am to be induced with this baby how is the plug removed?

Answer
Erin,

If it has not dislodged on its own by the time you're induced, it will start to dislodge on its own as the induction progresses.  

The mucus plug can also come out a bit at a time, meaning you could be losing small parts of it day by day and just think you're having heavier-than-usual discharge.


Best,
Catherine

Childbirth

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Catherine Beier MS CBE

Expertise

I can provide evidence-based information and current research findings concerning childbirth and pregnancy. My specializations include natural childbirth, pregnancy and birth interventions, fetal positioning, labor induction, choosing a care provider, midwives, homebirth, unassisted birth, natural pain relief, medications in pregnancy and birth, informed consent, understanding the risks and benefits of childbirth choices, doulas, waterbirth, childbirth methods, childbirth education classes, cesarean section, and VBAC.

Experience

I have been a childbirth educator, mother, author, public speaker, researcher, and birth advocate for the past 9 years. I am also the author of Giving Birth Naturally, a site dedicated to natural childbirth and pregnancy information. I publish evidence-based articles on pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care, and post-partum care. I'm also a mother of three children, two daughters and one son all born naturally. To learn more about what normal birth looks like, view the natural childbirth video of my son being born at home unassisted.

Publications
My book, Birth Outside the Box, was published in 2007.

Education/Credentials
I hold a Master's degree in communication disorders with an emphasis in child development. I am also an independent childbirth educator.

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