"A 'show' in pregnancy is the discharge of the mucus plug that has sealed the cervix throughout pregnancy, and its appearance is a recognised sign that labour may be approaching." The show typically looks like a small amount of blood-streaked or pink-tinged mucus, and while it can occur days before labour begins, it signals that the cervix is starting to soften and dilate. Not all pregnant people will notice a show, and its absence does not indicate a problem. If there is heavy bleeding rather than a small amount of blood-tinged mucus, medical advice should be sought immediately.
- Early pregnancy scans at Merrion Fetal Health are available from 6 weeks of gestation.
- The Nuchal Translucency scan is offered between 12 and 14 weeks of pregnancy.
- The Anatomy Survey scan is performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy.
- Gender scans are available from 19 weeks onwards at the clinic.
- Growth and Well Being scans are offered from 22 weeks onwards.
- Post Dates and Liquor scans are conducted from 40 weeks onwards.
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Pregnancy-what is a show?
Show FAQs
What is a show?
A show is the mucous plug that functions as a sealer for your cervix during your pregnancy. It helps protect your baby (along with the amniotic sac) from the external world and it stays with you until you are ready for delivery.
What does losing the mucous show mean?
This is a sign that your cervix is going through the labour process, softening and dilating, preparing your uterus and body for childbirth.
What does a mucous show looks like?
Imagine a cork, but clear, gelatinous and with a mucous texture.
Should I pull out my own mucous show?
No, you should never do that. By doing this, your risk of infection will get very high. We know that pregnancy can make some women anxious, but let nature do its work.
How long does it take going into labour after losing the mucous show?
This varies from woman to woman. This period of time can go from a few minutes to a few weeks before the labour process starts.
Is something bad going to happen if I lose the mucous show early?
You do not have to worry about it, nothing bad is going to happen. It does not matter if you discharge your mucous plug weeks before labour, your baby is still going to be protected by the amniotic sac and new developing mucous. You can have a normal pregnant life until labour starts.
Will the mucous show always discharge?
Yes, this mucous cork will always discharge before labour. A different thing is that some women may not notice this process (for many reasons), but it will always happen.
Will my water break before or after losing the show?
Commonly, this happens before, but you can sometimes leak amniotic fluid due to a tear in the amniotic sac. Either way, if your water breaks or you begin to leak fluid, you should go to your doctor.
What is a bloody show?
A bloody show is the same as a mucous show, but with blood. This occurs because the blood vessels located in the cervix are rupturing due to this structure´s labour changes. This should happen after 37 weeks of pregnancy. If it happens earlier, you should go to your doctor immediately.
How long does it take going into labour after releasing the bloody show?
This can go from a few hours to a day or two. Either way, prepare your bags and go to see your doctor because you will not have that much time until the first labour signs arrive.
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DISCLAIMER
All articles on the blog and website are intended as information only. Please do not consider any of the information provided here as a substitute for medical advice. At all times seek medical advice directly with your own doctor and medical team.
ANNOUNCEMENT
This website was formerly Merrion Fetal Health. The clinic has undergone a rebrand and is now known as Merrion Ultrasound.
What is a "show" in pregnancy?
A "show" in pregnancy refers to the mucus plug that seals the cervix during pregnancy being discharged as the cervix begins to soften and prepare for labour. It typically appears as a small amount of jelly-like mucus, sometimes tinged with blood. It is considered a sign that the body is getting ready for labour.
When does a show happen during pregnancy?
A show most commonly occurs in the final weeks of pregnancy as the cervix begins to efface and dilate in preparation for labour. It can happen days or even weeks before labour actually begins. Some women may not notice it at all.
What does a show look like?
A show typically looks like a small blob or discharge of thick, jelly-like mucus that may be clear, pink, or slightly blood-streaked. The blood-tinged appearance is caused by tiny blood vessels in the cervix breaking as the mucus plug loosens. It is sometimes called a "bloody show" when it contains visible blood.
Is a show a sign that labour is starting?
A show is a sign that the cervix is beginning to change and that labour may be approaching, but it does not necessarily mean labour will begin immediately. Labour can follow hours, days, or even weeks after a show occurs. Women should monitor for other signs of labour such as regular contractions or waters breaking.
Should you contact your midwife or doctor after having a show?
If a show is accompanied by heavy bleeding, strong regular contractions, or the waters breaking, you should contact your midwife or maternity unit promptly. A straightforward show without other symptoms is generally considered normal and not a medical emergency. Always follow the guidance of your own healthcare provider.
Can you have a show and not go into labour straight away?
Yes, it is possible to have a show and not go into labour for several days or even weeks afterwards. The show simply indicates that cervical changes are occurring, not that active labour is imminent. Each pregnancy is different, and the timing varies from woman to woman.