QuestionI lost my mucus plug "bloody show -present" today at 12:45 p.m. I was said to be at 1cm dilated and 20% effaced. I've been having steady and strong contractions since then. Am I well into labor and should I call my doctor?
AnswerDilation and effacement mean nothing. Neither does losing your plug, or bloody show. You can be tight shut, 0cm and 0% effaced, and have a baby within hours, or you can walk around dilated to 4cm for weeks. You can also regenerate your mucous plug, so this is not a reliable sign, either.
Steady, strong contractions are a good sign, but the best indicator of how far along you are is how much concentration you are needing to devote to your contractions. If you can still pose for a picture and smile, it's not time to head for the hospital yet. You can probably stay at home until your labor requires all of your attention...in other words, you won't be interested in getting on here to talk to me!
Good luck, and congratulations on your baby!
