The term 'bloody show' refers to which discharge?

• A. The sudden, heavy vaginal bleeding.
• B. The onset of labor pains.
• C. A discharge of clear, watery fluid.
• D. The small amount of pink-tinged mucus that is discharged from the vagina after expulsion of the mucous plug.

Answer: (D)

Bloody show is the pink-tinged mucus discharge that occurs when the mucous plug is expelled from the cervix as labor approaches. The mucous plug seals the cervical opening during pregnancy, and its release signals that the cervix is preparing to dilate. The discharge is typically a small amount and may appear pink due to tiny blood vessels in the cervix. It differs from heavy vaginal bleeding, which is not normal and requires urgent evaluation, from the onset of true labor contractions, which are painful tightening sensations, and from clear, watery fluid, which would indicate amniotic fluid leakage. If you notice bloody show, monitor for contractions and other symptoms, and seek medical care if bleeding is heavy or if there is fluid leakage.