How soon can you get a membrane sweep?

Question

im 37 weeks and i have an appointment today and i was wondering if anyone got a membrane sweep done this early... my doctor wants to induce me by 39weeks for medical reasons so i was trying think of ways to go naturally without having to get induced. i know of all the other methods like s*x and stuff but isn't 37 weeks to soon for that to work?? any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

I don't think they will do that unless you are dialted.  Figures huh?  But of course you can try s*x, walking, nipple stimulation.  They even say there is a way to induce labor by a massage.  

Good luck!  

Answer 2

Where I live (mids, UK) they do not usually do this until you are 41 weeks, but if they are going to induce you early anyway, they might give it a go. It's definitely worth asking. Good luck.

PS Drink raspberry leaf tea or take the supplements, it's supposed to help.  

Answer 3

They might not do it til you are closer to your due date. You can walk, eat fresh pineapple and some other things to help things along. Good luck!

Answer 4

sorry hun, but you have to be dilated for this.

Answer 5

You can ask, but they might not do it unless you're a bit dialated. Mine didn't offer it until 39 weeks.

I have heard a membrane sweep can be done if you aren't dialated but it is much more uncomfortable.

Answer 6

My midwife only suggests a sweep if you're having irregular contractions, are somewhat dilated, and are over 50% effaced.  She said if you do it too early, it just makes you miserable.  It's more of "jumpstart" for labor...if you're ready.  I was having irregular pretty hard contractions for a few days, and was dilated to 3.  My midwife did the membrane sweep and my daughter was born 4 hours later.

Most OB-GYNS won't do it before 38 weeks....just depends.  I'd ask your Dr.

Good Luck! and congrats on the new baby!