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WHAT IS A MEMBRANE SWEEP?

Membrane sweep
Sophie Martin
Medically reviewed by
23rd Mar 2023
 

If you’re expecting a baby then you may have heard people talk about having a membrane sweep. This is a method used by doctors and midwives to encourage labour. While it may sound a bit scary, it’s a very common procedure and is nothing to worry about.

But what exactly is a membrane sweep? And when does it take place?

Here’s some answers to those questions, and others:

When and why would I need a membrane sweep?

Also known as a cervical sweep this is a procedure that can help to stimulate your cervix (the neck of your womb) as a way of encouraging your body to go into labour. It is a quick procedure and doesn’t involve any drugs or special equipment.  

You will normally be offered a sweep at around 40 weeks of your pregnancy, as a step before induction. Induction is offered to all women who don't go into labour naturally by 42 weeks, as there's a higher risk of stillbirth or problems for the baby if you go over that time period. Induction is a more complicated process, so the hope is that a membrane sweep may be all you need to encourage labour to take place.

Remember, only medical professionals are allowed to carry this out– it is never something you should do yourself, or let anyone who isn’t properly trained do. So, you don’t need to worry about how to do one – someone else takes care of everything for you!

Your midwife or doctor will discuss the sweep with you and answer any questions you may have. It is your decision whether you wish to have a sweep performed or not.

What happens during a membrane sweep?

A sweep can take place at home, or in hospital – depending on where you are and what stage you are at. A doctor or midwife will first feel your tummy to establish which way your baby is lying and check the heartbeat. You will not be offered a sweep if the placenta is low-lying, if you have experienced heavy vaginal bleeding during pregnancy or if your baby is not in the correct position. Your healthcare professional will then examine you and provided the cervix is at least slightly open they will sweep their finger around in a circular movement inside the cervix.

This is to separate the membranes of the amniotic sac surrounding your baby from your cervix. This releases hormones called prostaglandins, which may kick-start your labour.

Is a sweep painful?

It is similar to having a vaginal examination or smear test and can be uncomfortable, but whoever does it will use lubricating gel to help reduce the discomfort.

What should I expect after a membrane sweep?

The side effects of a membrane sweep can be a little pain or slight bleeding afterwards. You could also experience a ‘show’ afterwards, which is a mucousy discharge from your vagina that may contain a little blood.

You can take paracetamol to ease any pain, and a warm bath may also help. All of these symptoms are normal and will not harm you or your baby.

How successful is a membrane sweep?

Although it is not guaranteed to work, it is considered an effective way of encouraging the onset of natural labour within the following 48 hours and can reduce the chances of you needing an induction.

If your first sweep is unsuccessful, you won’t necessarily move straight into induction. Depending on circumstances, you may be offered a second – or even a third – but they will be spread 48 hours apart.

If membrane sweeping does not bring on labour you will be given an appointment to attend the hospital between 41 and 42 weeks of pregnancy for a review and to discuss induction.

What are the risks and benefits of a membrane sweep?

The benefits

The main benefit of a sweep is that you are more likely to go into labour naturally and meet your baby a little sooner.

The risks

This is generally safe but there are a few risks to be aware of including:

  • A risk of bleeding afterwards
  • Cramping which can be confused with contractions
  • During the proceedure there is a small risk your waters will break

Remember, if you're unsure or have questions, you can always ask your Midwife or Maternity Team as they are there to help and support you.

What are the signs of labour after a membrane sweep?

Some of the most common signs of labour after a sweep include:

 

 

 

This content is sponsored by Pampers®

 

Approved by healthcare team





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