Thursday, September 5, 2013

Membrane Sweep

You are never too old to learn! Oma had never heard of a Membrane Sweep. Nevertheless, they are a common option when a baby is over his/her due date.

A membrane sweep is a way of bringing on labor when you're overdue. During an internal examination, the doctor sweeps a finger around the cervix (neck of the womb). This action should separate the membranes of the amniotic sac surrounding your baby from the cervix. This separation releases hormones (prostaglandins) which may kick-start labor.

A membrane sweep increases the likelihood that labor will start within 48 hours. It has a higher chance of working if the cervix is already softening and preparing for labor. It doesn't increase the risk of infection for mommy or baby.



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