FTM - What is a membrane sweep?

Question

And is it necessary? I want to try and go natural the whole way and not have any interventions if at all possible.
Wishful thinking - but that’s my goal.

Answer

Late in pregnancy, a doctor or midwife inserts a gloved finger through the cervical canal and uses a sweeping motion to separate the membrane from the cervix. This “sweep,” releases prostaglandins, which are chemicals that help soften and open the cervix for delivery. “The hope is to accelerate that onset of labour by the increase of prostaglandins.
I had it done because I wanted to, I was 39 weeks & 4 days & just fully over being pregnant. I had a super healthy pregnancy so my DR was ok with doing it. I went into labor less than 12 hours later. My water broke

Answer

It'd only be done if they are trying to get labor started. I would personally consider it if I am past 40 weeks and it is a possible alternative to traditional induction. I'd rather avoid pittocin if I can!

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There is a 50/50 chance a membrane sweep will actually work...some women have them and still don’t go into labor until days later. Your body will do its thing when it’s ready.

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It’s not necessary and has never worked with any of my previous 5. Yes, I’ve had it done with all 5. It’s supposed to onset labor. They use their finger to rupture the membrane that connects the amniotic sac to the cervix. It can cause cramping and bleeding. Lots of bleeding, but it’s not a proven method to induce labor. From my experience labor starts when baby is ready!

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I had one done twice with my daughter once at 39 weeks because I was already having contractions and we wanted to prevent an induction then again at 41 weeks because it hadn't worked. Neither worked and I ended up being induced

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Not necessary and not something your ob will push on you if you don't want it. They only do it once you're very close to your due date.
It can help get labor started if your body is ready. If it's not ready it won't do anything.