How do midwives do a sweep

This information is for your general information and use only and is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes. The information is not a substitute for independent professional advice and should not be used as an alternative to professional health care.

If you have a particular medical problem, please consult a healthcare professional. For more information, please visit the links below:.

You are welcome to continue browsing this site with this browser. Some features, tools or interaction may not work correctly. There is a total of 5 error s on this form, details are below. Please enter your name Please enter your email Your email is invalid. Please check and try again Please enter recipient's email Recipient's email is invalid.

Please check and try again Agree to Terms required. Thank you for sharing our content. A message has been sent to your recipient's email address with a link to the content webpage. Your name: is required Error: This is required. Your email: is required Error: This is required Error: Not a valid value. Send to: is required Error: This is required Error: Not a valid value. On this page What is a stretch and sweep?

Is a stretch and sweep safe? When can you get a membrane sweep? Is a stretch and sweep painful? Joseph Communications uses cookies for personalization, to customize its online advertisements, and for other purposes. Learn more or change your cookie preferences. By continuing to use our service, you agree to our use of cookies.

Prostaglandins are hormones that are associated with labor because they cause smooth muscle contractions. This includes contractions of the uterus that can lead to labor. Doctors intend for a stretch and sweep to stimulate labor within 48 hours. According to a review of study data published in The Cochrane Review, stretch and sweep performed at term labor was associated with reduced labor duration and pregnancy duration.

The review examined 22 studies that included nearly 3, women. However, the study did find that women who underwent stretch and sweep reported symptoms such as bleeding, irregular contractions, and discomfort during vaginal examination.

This is sometimes known as your water breaking. Some women can have irregular contractions, and they may not necessarily lead to labor. Only a licensed professional should do it. Women who wish to go into labor naturally may prefer this option when compared to medical induction. This is because there are risks if your pregnancy goes past 42 weeks. For example, the placenta may not be able to provide enough oxygen to your baby at 42 weeks.

See all in Preschooler. See all in Life as a Parent. See all in Video. You might also like You might also like. When would I be induced and what is involved? Is it true that a bumpy car ride can help bring on labour? Are there any ways to bring on labour naturally? What is a Bishop score and why does it matter?

Do I have to be induced if my baby's overdue? Is it safe to do a DIY membrane sweep at home? Why can induction of labour take so long? Admission procedures early labour checks.