What is the first treatment for overdue pregnancy?

A membrane sweep is an examination in which a clinician separates the membranes near the cervix. It may encourage natural labour and can cause cramping or light bleeding. It is offered only when an examination is appropriate and you can choose whether to have it.

Induction of labour uses methods such as cervical ripening, medicines or breaking the waters to begin contractions. The choice depends on the cervix, your pregnancy history, your health and your baby's wellbeing. An overdue date is an estimate, so the maternity team also checks dates and monitoring results.

Attend the appointments offered by your maternity team and discuss the timing and setting of any induction. Ask how your baby's heart rate will be monitored, how contractions may be managed and what happens if the cervix does not respond. Keep track of your baby's usual movements and follow the local maternity service's instructions.

Contact your maternity unit immediately if your baby's movements are reduced or changed, or if you have vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, regular painful contractions, severe headache, vision changes or severe upper abdominal pain. Do not wait for a scheduled appointment when these symptoms occur.

Ask whether a membrane sweep is suitable, when induction is recommended, which method may be offered first and how your preferences will be included in the birth plan.