is this my mucous plug? (sorry if TMI)

[MamaPan]

Thanks Natalie - I was hoping this was the case... is softening the same as effacing??
Just trying to understand what is going on... I know it could be a way off but good to know some progress! it is all so exciting!!

[blue daisy]

yep softening is the same as effacing...before this all happens your cervix is about as firm to touch as the tip of your nose, and when soft feels like your lower lip...once it is all effaced (100% which means really thin) that is when your cervix can start dilating