Membrane sweep at 40 weeks

During the examination, a midwife or doctor passes a finger through the cervix, if it is open enough, and gently separates the membranes from the lower uterus. You can accept, postpone, or decline it after discussing the expected benefits and discomforts.

The procedure can feel uncomfortable and may cause pressure or cramping. If the cervix is closed, the clinician may be unable to complete the sweep and should explain what they were able to assess.

Afterwards, period-like cramps, irregular tightenings, and a small blood-streaked show can occur. These changes do not prove that established labour has started; contractions that become regular, stronger, and closer together are more suggestive of labour progressing.

Before consenting, ask why a sweep is being offered, what the examination involves, and what alternatives are available. Tell the clinician about unexplained bleeding, concerns about your waters, or any instruction you have received to avoid vaginal examinations.

After the appointment, use a pad to observe any discharge, keep hydrated, and follow your maternity unit's advice about comfort measures. Continue paying attention to your baby's usual movement pattern and keep your planned follow-up even if nothing happens immediately.

Contact maternity triage urgently if your baby is moving less than usual, you have fresh bleeding beyond a small show, your waters break, fluid looks or smells unusual, contractions are strong and regular, or you feel unwell.

Get immediate help for severe constant abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, breathing difficulty, or another sudden serious symptom. A membrane sweep should not be assumed to explain warning signs that require assessment.

Ask how a sweep fits your individual birth plan, what happens if your cervix is not open, and when another review is planned. It is also useful to discuss how induction of labour would differ and which number to call if labour or warning signs begin.