How Soon Will I Go Into Labor After a Membrane Sweep? You can even have multiple sweeps a week apart, unlike other induction methods that basically “start the clock” for delivery. The main downsides are pain during the procedure, and spotting and cramping afterwards. Membrane sweeps are considered to be a low-risk procedure. Going into labor on time may also be more important if you have a condition like preeclampsia, are attempting a VBAC, or if the doctors have a concern about the baby’s health.Ī membrane sweep isn’t the same as induction, so there’s no guarantee you’ll go into labor, but research shows the procedure is connected to increased rates of spontaneous labor and vaginal delivery, and lowered need for drugs like oxytocin.

Carrying the baby for more than about 10-12 days past your due date increases the chances of stillbirth (although the chances are still low). Your body’s natural contractions can be easier to tolerate than labor stimulated via medications like Pitocin. Going into spontaneous labor, without medication and close to your due date, carries some important advantages for the birth. This separation signals your body to release hormones that trigger contractions, increasing the chances that you’ll go into labor. Then, they insert the finger into the opening in your cervix and make a swirling (or sweeping) movement to separate the cervix from the sac that surrounds your baby. The doctor or midwife inserts a finger into your vagina to reach your cervix. What exactly does this procedure involve?Ī membrane sweep, also known as stripping the membrane or stretch-and-sweep, is a drug-free procedure. Your doctor may offer to perform a membrane sweep as a less invasive, but often effective way to nudge you toward the Big Day. By the time the due date rolls around, many expectant parents are anxious to get pregnancy over with and meet their baby already! There are a number of methods to attempt to jump-start labor, from old wives’ tales ( eat spicy food!) to full-on medical induction of labor.