What is a membrane sweep?
Also referred to as a cervical sweep or stretch, a membrane sweep is a method used to prompt labour without resorting to medications or drugs. If you have gone beyond your due date, your midwife might recommend this technique to expedite the process.
How does it work?
The membrane sweep is deemed safe during a standard pregnancy and can be carried out during your midwife appointment. You will be asked to lie down on the bed with your legs positioned apart. Wearing lubricated gloves, the midwife will perform a vaginal examination. During this examination, they will gently circulate their finger around your cervix. It’s important to remember that you can always request the midwife to halt the procedure if you find it uncomfortable.
This action is intended to separate the membranes of the amniotic sac enveloping your baby from your cervix. It also aims to release prostaglandins, hormones required to initiate labour.
There are scenarios where a sweep cannot be conducted. One such instance is when your cervix is fully closed (not yet dilated). In such cases, the midwife will attempt a gentle stretching motion. This involves massaging around the neck of your womb if it is pliable enough. If not, you will be scheduled for another membrane sweep a few days later.
How will I feel during and after the sweep?
Although this procedure is not intensely painful, you might find it a tad uncomfortable. Many women liken it to undergoing a smear test. Following the sweep, you may experience spotting, mild discomfort, as well as some cramps or sporadic contractions.
How will I know if it was successful?
If you notice the onset of labour, this signifies that the sweep was effective. This might involve experiencing a show, your waters breaking, or the commencement of regular contractions.
What if it doesn’t yield results?
A study has indicated that this method only achieves success in 24% of cases, yet it’s a favourable non-medicated approach to stimulate labour. If you have surpassed 40 weeks of pregnancy, you will be offered another sweep if the initial one does not produce results. If the second attempt also proves ineffective, you will be scheduled for a hospital induction, typically after 41 weeks and 5 days.
