Inducing Labour with a Membrane Sweep at 37 Weeks

As your due date approaches, you may be eager to meet your baby. If you're 37 weeks pregnant, you may be considering inducing labour to get things moving. One common method of induction is a membrane sweep, also known as a 'stretch and sweep.' In this article, we'll delve into the details of a membrane sweep at 37 weeks and what you can expect.

A membrane sweep involves your midwife sweeping your cervix with their finger to separate it from the sac/membranes. This helps release prostaglandin hormones, which stimulate labour contractions. It's often done in conjunction with breaking your waters or using syntocinon, a hormone that stimulates labour contractions. Prostaglandin can be used as a gel or pessary placed at the neck of your womb to encourage contractions.

While a membrane sweep is not a guarantee of labour induction, it can help soften your cervix and prepare it for further induction methods. In most cases, an additional membrane sweep will be offered at a later date, allowing enough time for your cervix to soften.

If you do decide to have a membrane sweep, be prepared for some discomfort during the procedure. It's similar to an internal examination, so you may feel pressure and pain as your midwife sweeps your cervix. However, this is usually temporary, and many women find it a relatively quick and easy process.

It's also important to note that inducing labour can be more painful than a spontaneous labour. You may experience intense contractions, and in some cases, hyperstimulation – when the uterus contracts too frequently or contractions last too long. This can lead to changes in fetal heart rate and result in fetal compromise.

In addition, induced labour may require an assisted vaginal birth (using forceps or ventouse) and may have limitations on your choice of place of birth. You may also need vaginal examinations to assess the cervix before and during induction to determine the best method of induction and monitor progress.

If you're considering inducing labour with a membrane sweep at 37 weeks, it's essential to discuss your options with your healthcare provider. They can help you weigh the pros and cons and create a birth plan that suits your needs.

Remember, induced labour may not always result in immediate progress. Be prepared for things to move quickly, but also be patient – sometimes it takes a couple of days to get moving. Your breathing exercises will help you cope with the process, and your midwife will support you through it all.

For more information on inducing labour, why not give our Careline experts a call or ask us a question online using Live Chat Monday to Friday, 8am-8pm? We're here to help you navigate this journey and bring your baby into the world safely.

Membrane sweep at 37 weeks