Are you curious about what a membrane sweep looks like and whether or not it can hurt? This ultimate guide contains expert insight and answers to all your questions.
A membrane sweep (also known as pregnancy sweep or cervical sweep) is a low-intervention method to help bring about labour (opens in a new window). You don’t have to do membrane sweeps. However, you can feel confident doing one.
While some medical professionals can explain the pros and cons of each procedure, others may assume you want it or even conduct it without your consent. It is important to research all options and understand the process before deciding for your baby and yourself.
What is a membrane sweep?
A membrane sweep is performed by a doctor or midwife who uses their finger to remove the membranes from the amniotic sac around the baby and release hormones that can hopefully jump-start your labour (opens in new tab). Your doctor or midwife will ask you to lay down on your back with your knees bent and your feet together. The doctor will insert a finger into your cervix and wrap it around.
Sometimes, your doctor or midwife will recommend a ‘Stretch and sweep’. If you aren’t ready for a membrane sweep, the midwife may stretch and massage your cervical area. This could ‘ripen up’ your cervix and prepare you for a full swathe at your next appointment. Wear a maternity towel or pantyliner if you are going for a sweep.
Anthonissa Mager, founder of The Hypnobirthing Midwife (opens in a new tab) and author of Holistic Hypnobirthing (opens in a new tab), states that the body must be prepared for a sweep. “A sweep is one of the easiest induction pathways. You can choose to decline induction if you don’t feel comfortable with it. If your cervix is already softening, opening, and coming forward, then a sweep won’t work. This is because your body is about to enter labour. Your midwife might not be able to reach your cervix if your body is still inactive.
What are the positive signs following a membrane sweep?
A membrane sweep will show that your body is responding well and that labour is progressing. These positive signs are similar to other labour and can include stronger, more frequent contractions, loss of your mucus plug and dilated cervix. Learn more about the signs that labour is about to begin so you can determine if you are about to give birth.
What are the best times to use a membrane sweep?
If you are more than 40 weeks pregnant, your midwife might suggest a membrane sweep (opens in a new window). You may be able to discuss a sweep with your 38-week, 41-week and 41-week antenatal appointments if you are a first-time mom.
You’ll be given a sweep if you are not a first-time mom. Before the midwife talks about inducing labour with hormonal medication like prostaglandin or Pitocin, sweeps are an option. It is important to note that such medications are also available. Induced labour can be more painful than natural labour because the body gets a rapid dose of hormones rather than a gradual increase. Induction labours can be more painful and intense for some mums. A hormonal induction or two to three sweeps may be recommended before labour begins.
You can request a sweep, but you can also decline if you prefer to wait. The midwives might want to monitor your progress and your baby’s health, but you should relax and not worry about the fallacy regarding due dates (opens in a new window).
Are membrane sweeps mandatory?
No, membrane sweeps do not have to be performed and are not part of routine exams. Before performing a sweep, medical staff should ask your permission. The staff should explain the process to you and its implications. A doctor or midwife should not pressure you to have a sweep.
Milli Hill, founder of the positive birth movement (opens a new tab) and author of the positive birth book (opens a new tab). “A sweep is not something you have to do. If you’re happy to have one, that’s your choice.
