What Is a Membrane Sweep?

A membrane sweep, also known as membrane stripping, is a procedure that helps to induce labor naturally when someone is after 39 weeks of pregnancy. The procedure requires your healthcare provider to insert gloved fingers into the cervix and sweep across the membranes to loosen the amniotic sac from the uterus. Separating the amniotic membranes from the uterus helps to speed up labor by releasing prostaglandins, which are hormones associated with labor. Although this is an effective procedure, it is not guaranteed that it will always work to induce labor. If it does not work to induce labor, your doctor may try other methods.

When Is a Membrane Sweep Performed?

A membrane sweep is typically performed after 39 weeks of pregnancy. The procedure can only be performed if your cervix has begun dilating. The procedure may be recommended if you are partially dilated and contractions have not started, or if the contractions began but have started and stopped. If your pregnancy is determined to be high risk, your healthcare provider may recommend against a membrane sweep.

How Long after a Membrane Sweep Will I Go into Labor?

The amount of time a person takes to go into labor after a membrane sweep varies among individuals. Spontaneous labor usually occurs within 2-7 days following the procedure. It is normal to experience cramping and some spotting following the procedure.

How Painful Is a Membrane Sweep?

A membrane sweep can be mildly painful or uncomfortable. It is often described as a rougher pelvic exam. You may experience some cramping and light spotting during and shortly after the procedure.

How Likely Is a Membrane Sweep to Induce Labor?

A membrane sweep is considered an effective way to induce labor. Although it is not guaranteed to work every time, it has a high percentage for success. Since it is a low-risk procedure, patients may choose to repeat the procedure if it does not work the first time.

How Dilated Do You Have to be for a Membrane Sweep?

Usually, you need to be at least 1-2 centimeters dilated for a membrane sweep to be recommended or performed by a healthcare provider.

Risks and Benefits

The benefits of a membrane sweep are that if it is effective, the procedure can naturally induce labor without the need for medication or a medical induction. A membrane sweep is a low-risk procedure. It can also relieve the discomfort that comes with being past your due date.

The risks of a membrane sweep are minimal, but may include the following:

• Cramping (this can sometimes be confused with contractions)
• Spotting or light bleeding during or right after the procedure
• In some cases, the sweep may cause your water to break

Preparing for a Membrane Sweep

Preparing for a membrane sweep is similar to a pelvic exam. Your healthcare provider will have you undress from the waist down. You will either be in a hospital gown or have a sheet draped over your legs. Once your feet are in the stirrups, your healthcare provider will check to see if your cervix is dilated enough to have the procedure. If you are dilated enough, your doctor will then insert two gloved fingers into your cervix and sweep around in a circular motion. The sweeping helps to separate the amniotic sac from the walls of the uterus, which then causes your body to release prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are the hormones that initiate labor. On occasion, the sweeping motion may break your water, which is usually not a problem since it is happening at full-term.

What to Expect after a Membrane Sweep

There are several things you can expect after a membrane sweep. For most people, a membrane sweep will induce labor sometime within the first 7 days following the procedure. Some people experience cramping and light bleeding during and right after a membrane sweep. On some occasions, your water may break, which is not typically concerning due to being in the late stages of pregnancy. Some of the most common signs of labor after a membrane sweep include:

• Contractions
• Losing your mucus plug
• Your water breaks
• Having a bloody show

How to Schedule a Membrane Sweep

If you are past your 39th week or past your due date, scheduling a membrane sweep may be beneficial for you. A membrane sweep is a low-risk and effective procedure that can be used to induce labor naturally. Please reach out to your healthcare provider to schedule an appointment today!