What is a Membrane Sweep and Do They Work
As your due date approaches, you might hear your doctor mention something called a membrane sweep. This topic comes up around 39 weeks to 40 weeks and could be something you want to consider if you are itching to get labor started. But before you jump into a decision, it’s important to understand exactly what a membrane sweep is.
Key Takeaways
A membrane sweep is a natural method to encourage labor by stimulating the release of hormones that may help kickstart contractions.
It’s a simple, in-office procedure performed by a provider during a cervical exam, usually at 39 weeks or later.
Effectiveness varies for each person, and while some may go into labor within a few days, others may not see any immediate changes.
It’s important to discuss your options with your provider to determine if a membrane sweep is right for you and to understand possible discomfort and risks.
What is a Membrane Sweep?
A membrane sweep (also called a cervical sweep or stripping the membranes) is a simple procedure that can help nudge labor along naturally. If you’re past 38 weeks and looking for ways to get things moving, your provider might offer this option before considering a medical induction.
How Membrane Sweeps Work
During a routine prenatal visit, your doctor inserts a gloved finger into your cervix and makes small circular motions to separate the amniotic sac from the cervix. This little movement releases prostaglandins—hormones that help soften the cervix and encourage contractions. It’s kind of like giving your body a gentle wake-up call to let it know it’s time to get ready for labor.
Why Would I Need a Membrane Sweep?
For women who plan to deliver their baby vaginally, a membrane sweep is typically offered between 39 weeks and 41 weeks of pregnancy. While this is a completely voluntary procedure, you might want to consider a membrane sweep if:
You’re past your due date and hoping to avoid medical induction.
Your cervix is slightly dilated and in a good position for the procedure.
You and your baby are healthy, and there are no complications that would make it unsafe.
Ultimately, the decision is yours! Your provider will discuss the pros and cons with you to help you make the best choice for your situation.
Do Membrane Sweeps Hurt?
Membrane sweeps aren’t generally considered enjoyable, but they are quick. During a membrane sweep, women can expect to experience some discomfort in the form of pressure or mild cramping, but it shouldn’t last long. The whole process takes just a few minutes, and then you can go about your day.
What to Expect After a Membrane Sweep
After the procedure, you might have some spotting, mild cramping, or even irregular contractions. This is totally normal and a sign that your body is responding.
If you notice heavy bleeding (enough to soak through a pad or run down your leg), severe pain, or reduced fetal movement, be sure to call your healthcare provider right away. Though some degree of cramping or pain is expected, it should not be unbearable. If you aren’t sure if what you’re feeling is normal, you can always call your doctor for peace of mind.
Will It Actually Kickstart Labor?
The truth is–sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn’t. Some people go into labor within 24 to 48 hours after a membrane sweep, while others don’t notice much of a change. It really depends on how ready your body is. The closer you are to your due date, the higher your success rate will be.
Research suggests that membrane sweeps can slightly increase the chances of labor starting naturally and may reduce the need for a medical induction. But if your baby (or your body) isn’t quite ready, it might not do the trick right away.
Pros and Cons of a Membrane Sweep
Like with any decision in pregnancy, there are benefits and downsides to consider before making a call. In the case of a membrane sweep (assuming your doctor has no medical opposition), it comes down to whether the pros outweigh the cons for you.
Pros:
Might help kickstart labor naturally, avoiding medical induction.
No medication or hospital stay required.
Can be done during a routine prenatal visit.
Cons:
Can be uncomfortable or mildly painful.
Might cause spotting and irregular contractions that don’t lead to labor.
Not a guaranteed way to get labor started.
Small risk of breaking the water prematurely.
Signs a Membrane Sweep Worked
After a membrane sweep, there are certain signs to be on the lookout for that could indicate labor is starting. These signs include regular contractions that get stronger and closer together, more noticeable cramping or lower back pain, losing your mucus plug (sometimes called a “bloody show”), and your water breaking.
Remember, if your pain is severe and your bleeding is heavy, you should call your doctor right away. Some pain is normal, but it should be manageable.
Final Thoughts
Reaching the end of pregnancy can feel like the last mile of a marathon, but know that you are so close to the finish line! A membrane sweep is one option that might help jumpstart labor naturally, but your body and baby will ultimately decide when the time is right. No matter what you choose, trust that your body knows what to do and never hesitate to talk to your provider about any concerns.
Like with anything, feeling informed can make a big difference as you prepare for birth. Birthly’s live, online classes offer expert-led guidance to help you navigate labor and delivery with confidence.
Membrane Sweep FAQs
Is a Membrane Sweep Right for You?
At the end of the day, this is a personal decision. If you are 39 weeks or more, 1-2 cm dilated, and aren't high-risk, a membrane sweep could be a good option if you are anxious to get things moving. If you’d rather let labor happen on its own, that’s completely valid, too. The best thing you can do is have an open conversation with your provider about your options. They’ll help you weigh the benefits and risks based on your unique situation.
How long after membrane sweep does labor start?
Labor can start within 48 hours or take as long as 7 days. Remember – there is no guarantee that a membrane sweep will kickstart labor, and every person and pregnancy is different. The closer you are to your due date, the better your odds are of labor starting.
How dilated do you need to be for membrane sweep?
This will depend on your pregnancy and your provider, but typically, providers want you to be at least 1-2 cm dilated before doing a membrane sweep. This is one of the reasons why you don’t hear of membrane sweeps at 38 weeks or earlier.
Is membrane sweep better than induction?
A membrane sweep is a less invasive procedure and is often recommended as a first attempt at naturally triggering labor before the more involved process of medically inducing labor.
Sources
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21900-membrane-sweep
https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/membrane-stripping#does-it-work
https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2022/0200/p177.html
https://www.baptisthealth.com/care-services/conditions-treatments/membrane-sweep