What should you know about a midwife membrane sweep?

With your consent, the midwife examines the cervix with gloved fingers and makes a sweeping movement around the inside of its opening. This may release local hormones and can sometimes help the cervix soften or labour begin. It is different from breaking the waters, and it does not involve medication.

You may feel pressure, discomfort or brief pain. Spotting, period-like cramps and irregular contractions can occur afterwards. A sweep does not always start labour, and the midwife may discuss another sweep or other options if labour does not begin.

Before the examination, ask why it is being offered, what alternatives are available and whether your cervix can be reached. You can ask the midwife to stop at any point. Wear a pad afterwards if you have spotting, rest when needed and keep your maternity contact details nearby. Follow the personalised plan for monitoring your baby and attending follow-up care.

Read more about a [Membrane Sweep](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/membrane-sweep/) and how it relates to [Induction of Labour](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/induction-of-labour/).

Contact your maternity unit promptly for heavy bleeding, severe or constant abdominal pain, leaking fluid, fever, feeling unwell, reduced baby movements or contractions that concern you. Seek urgent help if you feel faint, have severe pain or believe you or your baby may be in immediate danger. Your maternity team can tell you which number to use.

Ask whether a sweep is suitable at your stage of pregnancy, what the examination may feel like, what bleeding or contractions are expected, and what the next step will be if labour does not begin.