What to expect from a membrane sweep for overdue pregnancy

A membrane sweep is offered when pregnancy is overdue or labour has not started. With your consent, a midwife or doctor performs a vaginal examination and reaches the cervix. If the cervix is open enough, they move a finger around its inner edge to separate the lower membranes from the cervix. If the cervix is closed or difficult to reach, a sweep may not be possible.

The examination can feel uncomfortable or cause pressure and cramping. Light bleeding, mucus or a change in discharge may follow. A sweep may be followed by contractions, but it does not guarantee that labour will begin; your maternity team will explain other options if it does not.

Wear a pad if you have spotting and note whether contractions become regular, stronger or closer together. Rest, drink fluids and use the comfort measures your maternity team has recommended. Keep your phone available and know where to go if labour starts. Ask when the next review will happen and what induction plan applies if labour does not begin.

Call your maternity unit for heavy bleeding, severe constant pain, waters breaking with unusual colour or smell, regular painful contractions, reduced or changed fetal movements, fever or feeling unwell. Do not wait for a routine appointment when you are concerned about your baby’s movements or have a significant change in symptoms.

Ask why a sweep is being offered now, whether your cervix can be reached, what bleeding is expected, and which symptoms mean you should call. Clarify the next review and what happens if the sweep does not lead to labour.