Membrane Sweep

A membrane sweep separates the membranes around the baby from the cervix to release natural hormones that may encourage labour.

A membrane sweep, also called a stretch and sweep, is offered during a vaginal examination near the end of pregnancy. A midwife or doctor gently passes a gloved finger through the cervix, if it is open enough, and moves around its edge to separate the membranes from the lower part of the uterus. This can release local hormones that may help the cervix soften and labour begin. It does not involve breaking the waters or placing medicine inside the uterus.

First, your clinician explains the examination, checks whether it is suitable, and asks for your consent. You may be offered privacy and a position that feels manageable. During the examination, pressure, cramping, or discomfort is possible, and you can ask for it to stop at any time. Afterwards, your clinician discusses what they felt at the cervix and what to expect, including when to contact the maternity unit.

For many pregnancies, a membrane sweep is a reasonable option when the maternity team has assessed you and your baby. It should not be performed when your clinician advises against a vaginal examination, such as with some placental or bleeding concerns. A small amount of spotting and period-like cramps can occur. Contact your maternity unit promptly for heavy bleeding, severe constant pain, reduced fetal movements, or fluid that may be your waters.

You can accept a sweep, decline it, or ask to discuss it again later. Your decision can depend on your examination, pregnancy history, preferences, and the wellbeing of you and your baby. A sweep is different from planned induction, which uses medicines or procedures to start labour. Ask what your team recommends if pregnancy continues beyond the expected date.

A sweep may be easier when the cervix has started to soften or open, but it cannot promise that labour will start. Some people notice cramps or a bloody show afterwards, while others notice no change. The examination does not remove the need to monitor fetal movements or report concerning symptoms.

A membrane sweep may be discussed when you are near or beyond your expected due date and want to consider an option that could encourage labour without starting an induction immediately. It is not a routine requirement. The clinician considers your gestation, cervical findings, placenta, bleeding history, waters, fetal movements, and any reason a vaginal examination should be avoided.

You will usually be asked to empty your bladder and lie in a supported position. The clinician explains each step, uses a glove and lubricant, and gently examines the vagina and cervix. If the cervix can be reached, they sweep around its edge. The appointment ends with a discussion of findings and a plan for monitoring or follow-up.

There is no surgical recovery period. You can generally resume ordinary activity if you feel well, but cramps may make rest or gentle movement more comfortable. Labour may start soon, later, or not as a result of the sweep. Keep monitoring movements and follow the contact plan given by your maternity team.

The examination can feel uncomfortable and may cause cramping, spotting, or irregular contractions. Occasionally it may be difficult to complete if the cervix is closed or hard to reach. Your clinician will explain personal reasons to avoid or postpone it. Seek urgent maternity advice for heavy bleeding, severe pain, fever, suspected rupture of membranes, or reduced fetal movements.

You may choose to wait for labour to begin naturally, continue routine monitoring, or discuss planned induction if there is a medical reason or pregnancy is overdue. The timing and method of induction depend on your cervix, pregnancy history, and local maternity plan. Read more about [Overdue Pregnancy](/conditions/post-term-pregnancy/) and [Induction of Labour](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/induction-of-labour/).

Arrange the discussion with your midwife, obstetrician, or maternity clinic, where your pregnancy records and examination findings are available. Before the appointment, note bleeding, contractions, fluid loss, fetal movements, and questions about timing. Ask who to contact outside clinic hours and what symptoms require immediate assessment.