I can only really remember the first pregnancy, and I kept losing bits from 37 weeks on.  I didn't really lose a full plug until I was in fully blown labour, and then I think it still came in bits.

The mucus plug can start to come away from around 36 weeks.  As it does, it renews itself, and it isn't until there is the blood show in it that you should expect labour.

For me, the plug never came away hours before giving birth, with all, it was within about 20 mins before their arrivals, but it is different for everyone.

If you are wanting to help bubs along, now is the best time to have sex as the prostalgins in the sperm will be able to have firm contact with the cervix and should help them to dilate better.

I was told if you haven't given birth after 24 hours when the plug comes out to go to the hospital/doctors and get antibiotics so you can't develop any infections. And if you're under 35 weeks to contact the hospital so they can give steroid injections to help develop bub's lungs incase you do go in to labour.

I lost mine at 36weeks with my second, and still went in for my c-section at 39wks.  It doesn't neccassarly mean labour is coming soon.  Just that your cervix is starting to thin.  If you are concerned go to the hospital or your doctor to get checked out.

From memory, I lost mine at about 8 months and had to be nduced at 9months. I know it w2as quiet some time, I wouldn't panick but if you are nearing the end of your preg then try to relax, put your feet up and get plenty of rest. The mucos plug is differnet for everyone, just like pregnancy it self  and the birth and all that preceeds and follows.

Best of luck and hopefully we hear of another safe arrival here on minti soon. xx.