The mucus plug, also known as the cervical mucus plug or simply cervical plug, is a gel-like substance produced by the cervix during pregnancy.
It forms a protective barrier within the cervical canal, sealing off the uterus from the external environment.
The mucus plug helps prevent infections and the entry of foreign substances into the uterus, safeguarding the developing fetus.
It is commonly expelled from the cervix as a sign of impending labor, but its loss before the third trimester can indicate a potential issue and should be reported to a healthcare provider.