Bleeding after a membrane sweep

During a sweep, a clinician passes a finger through the cervix and gently separates the membranes from the lower part of the womb. The cervix has small blood vessels and may bleed a little when touched, particularly if it has begun to soften before labour. A small amount of pink, brown, or red spotting may therefore follow the examination.

Thick mucus streaked with blood may be part of the mucus plug coming away. This does not give an exact timetable for labour. Cramping or irregular tightenings can also occur, while established labour is suggested by contractions that become stronger, longer, and more regular.

Use a maternity pad rather than a tampon so you can observe the amount and colour. Note when the bleeding began, whether it is increasing, and whether you have contractions, fluid leaking from the vagina, or a change in your baby's usual movements. Follow the maternity team's instructions about eating, drinking, rest, and when to call.

Contact your maternity unit if you are uncertain whether the fluid is blood, mucus, or waters. They can interpret the symptom alongside your stage of pregnancy, examination findings, and birth plan.

Call your maternity unit urgently for bleeding that is more than light spotting, is flowing, is soaking a pad, contains clots, or is increasing. Seek prompt assessment as well for severe or constant abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, fever, reduced or changed baby movements, or green or foul-smelling fluid.

If contractions become regular or you think your waters have broken, use the contact plan provided by your maternity service. Call emergency services if bleeding is heavy and you feel faint, weak, confused, or unable to travel safely.

Ask what amount of spotting they expect after your examination, which number to call outside clinic hours, and how your planned induction affects the next step. You can also ask how to distinguish early labour, waters breaking, and bleeding that needs immediate review.