

Some of the main benefits of a membrane sweep include: But bear with it, if it works it’s worth it!Īfter the sweep, you can go home and wait for labour to start! The Benefits Of A Membrane SweepĪ membrane sweep can be highly beneficial for those who are nearing or past their due date but do not want an induced labour.

The process doesn’t hurt, but it can often be quite uncomfortable. The examiner inserts a finger through the vagina into the cervix to separate the membranes of the amniotic sac surrounding your baby from the wall of the womb with a circular, sweeping movement and stretches the cervix at the same time. Your midwife will check baby position and heartbeatĢ. The process of a membrane sweep is simple:ġ. It is performed at home or in the antenatal clinic and takes about 10 minutes. We can reduce the likelihood of needing induction by having a membrane stretch and sweep.Ī membrane sweep, also known as a cervical sweep or membrane strip, is not a method of induction, but can help to encourage natural, spontaneous labour. While an induced labour is fairly common, with 1 in 5 labours in the UK being induced, many women want more information about how they can avoid having an induction of labour for being overdue.

As the weeks go on, you may find health professionals bringing up the topic of induction of labour. It’s important to remember that only 5% of women will give birth on their due date and not to fixate to greatly on this date. It’s natural to feel impatient in the final weeks of pregnancy, feeling frustrated to wake up each day to find you’re still pregnant.
