What does 'sweeping the membranes' mean ?

[Anonymous]

I am at week 36 and have had the vaginal exam...a little spotting but I have seen people make posts referring to 'sweeping the membranes' - what is this, what does it mean, and why do it ?

thanks !!

[Anonymous]

The care provider thoroughly sweeps her finger around the interior of your cervix to detach the ligaments holding the forebag of your amniotic sac. The idea is that this exam stimulates your cervix and produces local prostaglandins (which further soften your cervix).

The process can be very uncomfortable and is done late in pregnancy to promote the onset of labor. Some providers routinely strip membranes near your due date, while others try it only post-due date as a more natural induction technique. In all likelihood, you'll be asked by your provider if you'd like it to be done before she goes ahead and does it. But if you're unsure, go ahead and ask her/him!

Hope this helps

Heather Wilson
Certified Birth Doula