Sensitive pregnancy question inside (I'm a bit freaked out)....

[Sue G in PA]

Okay, I'm somewhere around 31 wks pregnant with baby #7. Last night, after "relations" w/ my dh, I noticed some pinkish/mucousy discharge (sorry to be so graphic). I thought nothing of it, thinking it somewhat normal. Nothing this morning. This afternoon, after using the bathroom, I noticed a LOT of blood-streaked/tinged mucous as I wiped. It looked like I lost my mucous plug! I only remember losing my mucous plug w/ my first child but this is exactly what it looked like! I am FREAKING out! I immediately called and left a message for my midwife but haven't heard back from her yet. I'm not having contractions nor have I had any (except occasional, mild Braxton Hicks) before this. Does this mean I'm dilating? Has anyone else experienced this at this early date in their pregnancy? AND, if worse came to worst, what are the complications or could be the complicatoins of delivering this early? My babies are always very large at term so the weight wouldn't be an issue, just lung development I'm guessing? Any words or reassurance, prayers, anything would be welcome! TIA

[j.griff]

Losing a mucous plug does not mean anything definitive. I would call my MW or Dr. and let them know, and to get some professional reassurance- but don't freak out. Especially if you haven't had any contractions or other signs of labor. Mucous plugs can re-grow (i've read this from many midwives posting on message boards in the past- they always tell the pg lady who thinks labor is eminent due to the losing of a plug that losing the plug does NOT mean she will have that baby any time soon). Hugs, HTH.

ETA (edited to add):
I realize that you did call your MW, I was just saying that I would do the same in this situation. :)

[Quiver0f10]

I have lost my plug and gone weeks before having the baby. I would speak to your MW just to ease your mid, but I think you will be fine.

[Peek a Boo]

another vote to kick back and relax--
you called your MW, now go back to bed. And tell dh to wait a couple weeks ;-P

Just think, if he waits till about week 35/36, then it won't be "too early" lol --you might be ready to try it every day to get the desired result... never worked here --two weeks late w/ the last 3 kiddos no matter WHAT we tried to bring on labor.

and 31 weeks isn't that early anymore: 13 years ago ds was seven weeks early and he was Just Fine. Technology has come a long way since.

[Melinda in VT]

The first time it did freak me out, but it was *weeks* and another mucus plug or two before I delivered.

I'd mention it to the midwife/doctor, but I wouldn't worry.

[Unicorn]

While you are waiting for the call back, put your feet up, rest, and drink plenty of water. I wouldn't worry too much right now. ((( Sue )))

[Osmosis Mom]

Actually the plug can remkae itself and this should not be a ground of worry. Having a water-tickle would be a concern, though, but not the plug. You can google it and see that this is correct.

Take care.