What is bloody sticky discharge from the vagina called?

Appeared in: Bihar CHO - 2021

Explanation

Show, also known as bloody show, is the passage of the mucus plug that has sealed the cervix during pregnancy.
It occurs as the cervix begins to efface (thin) and dilate (open) in preparation for labor, causing small capillaries to tear.
The discharge is typically a mix of mucus and a small amount of old (brownish) or fresh (pinkish) blood, giving it a sticky, bloody appearance.
It is a reliable sign that labor is impending, often occurring hours to days before active labor begins.

Option A: This is the softening of the lower uterine segment (isthmus), a physical change in the uterus itself, not a discharge.
Option B: This refers to the softening of the cervix, a change in tissue consistency, not a discharge.
Option C: This is the increased pulsation of the uterine arteries felt in the lateral vaginal fornices, a sign of increased blood flow to the uterus.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Signs of labor and pregnancy as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must educate expectant mothers about the signs of labor, including the appearance of a bloody show, to reduce anxiety and ensure timely arrival at the hospital.
It is critical for the nurse to differentiate a normal bloody show from abnormal antepartum hemorrhage (e.g., from placenta previa or abruption), which involves much heavier, bright red bleeding and requires immediate medical intervention.
What if? - If a pregnant woman reports a gush of bright red blood without mucus, the nurse should suspect a more serious condition like placental abruption or previa, instruct the patient to come to the hospital immediately, and prepare for an emergency assessment, rather than reassuring her that it is a normal sign of labor.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question testing knowledge of obstetric terminology.
Identify the key descriptor in the question: 'bloody sticky discharge'.
Evaluate each option's definition. Hegar's, Goodell's, and Osiander's signs are all related to physical changes (softening, pulsation) of the uterus or cervix felt on examination.
Recognize that 'Show' is the specific term for the expulsion of the mucus plug, which matches the description of a bloody, sticky discharge.
Therefore, select the option that describes a discharge, not a palpable physical sign.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Qx6Zq2_dlFx4iCj2SNI5bI

E6 Obstetrics Williams pp. 39-58, 47-68

E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur p. 6-11

Practise the full Bihar CHO - 2021

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.