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A stretch and sweep is a procedure used to try to start a natural labour. It is sometimes called sweeping or stripping the membranes.

It is usually offered to women who are close to or past their due date.

It will not be offered if:

your placenta is low

your baby is not head down

your waters have broken

you have a vaginal infection.

Your doctor or midwife will carry out a vaginal examination and feel for the position of your cervix (the lower part of the womb) to check if it is opening.

They will gently insert a gloved finger into your cervix and 'stretch' it and 'sweep' their finger around the inside of the opening. This separates some of the membranes away from the wall of the womb.

This releases a hormone called prostaglandin, which helps labour start.

You might feel some discomfort, but lubricating gel is used to help.

You may notice a 'show' – a mucus plug that is usually clear, but may have some blood in it. This is normal. Your body will continue to make this clear mucous, and you may notice more of it once you go into labour.

If you have fresh bleeding or feel worried, call the hospital. You may need to come in for assessment.

You might feel tightening or contractions in the following hours. This is a result of the prostaglandin being released and is a good sign that labour might start soon.

A 'stretch and sweep' is used to help start labour.

It reduces the need for an induction.

If it does not work, it can be repeated two or three times over the next few days.

A stretch and sweep can be uncomfortable and may cause discomfort that doesn't lead to labour, keeping you awake and not allowing rest.

There is a chance of some bleeding.

They do not always work. About 1 in 8 people go into labour after a sweep. It is more likely to work if you are already close to going into labour by yourself.

There is no evidence they increase the likelihood of a vaginal birth.

Vaginal examination may cause emotional distress, especially if you have a history of sexual trauma. Some people may experience strong discomfort, emotional distress and flashbacks, potentially indicating re-traumatisation. To reduce this risk, if you've had a traumatic experience in the past, let your care team know so they can support you in a sensitive way and adjust your care to help you feel safe and in control. Your care professionals will ensure you are in control of the pace, and you can request to take a break at any time.

There are no alternative methods used to help start labour other than an induction

You may choose to wait for labour to start on its own.

What feels right for you and your family? Do you understand the information you are being given?

You can choose to wait for labour to start on its own.

If there are concerns for you and your baby, an induction of labour may be recommended.