Mucus Plug?

Ok so I am just nearing the end of week 37 in my pregnancy & got my cervix check for any dilation for the 1st time ( I am only 1cm dilated) but when I got home (sorry if this is gross) I went to the bathroom & when I went to wipe myself clean there was this brown blood all over the tissue, kind of like period blood but old and brown.  I know the baby is ok because she's still kicking the **** out of me and I've been having contractions on and off but I thought they were braxton hicks contractions?  
I just have no idea what is going on and my DR's office is ALREADY closed for the day!

Any help would be GREATLY appreciated, thanks

[Spiket77]

The brown spotting may be from the exam. Bloody show is bright red.
If your contractions become regular and last for at least a minute in length...then call L&D. Contractions typically feel a lot more intense than braxton hicks.
You are almost there! Hang in there!

[jaidasmomma]

When I was 38 weeks and doctors checked me I started having contractions llater that day due to them checking me. Had my daughter 2 days later. Good luck!