What is a stretch and sweep?

If you are reaching your “due date” and you are birthing in the hospital system it is very likely you have, or soon will, be offered a stretch and sweep - also known as a membrane sweep. In this blog post you’ll read about what it is, how it is done and what the research says.

So what is a membrane sweep/stretch and sweep and how is it done?

A membrane sweep is where a midwife or obstetrician completes a vaginal exam and inserts a finger into the cervix and moves it in a circular movement, which they do to separate the cervix from the membranes (the membranes is the bag of waters). This is done to release a hormone called prostaglandin and to stimulate the uterus in the hopes that it will get labour started.

Does a stretch and sweep work?

Some women report going into labour within 48 hours of a stretch and sweep. Does that mean it worked or is it possible that baby was deciding to come on its own? Who knows. Other women report no start to labour even with multiple sweeps completed.

The research on stretch and sweeps

There is little and very weak research on stretch and sweeps. There is little to no evidence that it actually works at all as the reports vary a lot. Dr Sarah Wickham writes:

The most recent review shows that it’s still very uncertain whether or not membrane sweeping makes a difference. Note that, in this quote, they can only say that it MAY help. They also note that the evidence isn’t robust and that there are lots of areas that we need to know more about.

“Membrane sweeping may be effective in achieving a spontaneous onset of labour, but the evidence for this was of low certainty. When compared to expectant management, it potentially reduces the incidence of formal induction of labour. Questions remain as to whether there is an optimal number of membrane sweeps and timings and gestation of these to facilitate induction of labour.”

Should I have a stretch and sweep?

Only you can decide if a stretch and sweep is right for you. Being informed shapes the most crucial part of this - so here are my advice on what to consider before agreeing to a stretch and sweep.

• A stretch and sweep is a form of induction

  Anything that is done to try and get labour started earlier than intended, is an induction. It is important to understand this before agreeing to one.

• It can be uncomfortable

  Many women report membrane sweeps to be anything from uncomfortable to painful. You may have some bleeding afterwards and period like cramps.

• The risk of bacteria

  As always, inserting anything into a vagina (even a gloved hand) increases the risk for infection.

• There is a risk of accidental breaking of the waters

  Although not common, there is always a risk that having a stretch and sweep may break the waters which is also a form of induction

  Most important of all, is that you know you and only you can decide if a stretch and sweep is right for you. Nobody can force you to have one, you always have a right to say no.

  Research the pro’s and cons so you can be prepared should the conversation come up.

  Any questions regarding a membrane sweep, pop them in the comments below or feel free to flick through an email!

  x Michaela