In the last couple of weeks of the pregnancy, or a few days before the labour begins, the
mucous show may start to be released as the cervix thins, softens and ripens in preparation for labour. (It is not absolutely necessary for this to happen before labour, as it can also be passed during the labour and birth process).
If it is a show, it will normally be very thick and mucous-like. It can be grey, pink, brown or blood stained in colour. The show may come away in small dribs and drabs as you wipe yourself with toilet paper over a few days, or it may come out in a large 'blob', sometimes large enough to fill your hand. These are both normal, and in some cases labour will start within a few hours (but not always!)