Need info about membrane stripping.

[isosmom]

I'm barely overdue, but since I've got an appt next week, and they went ahead and planned an induction (the 28th) I thought I'd mention it at my next appt if nothing's happened by then. I just really want to avoid pit, btdt.
So what exactly happens? Any good info, experience, or links are greatly appreciated so I can go in there knowing what I'm talking about. Thanks.

[aylaanne]

My MWs have done this three times now, and while it's not the most comfortable thing in the world, it's not the worst, either. I think more than actually stripping the membranes they're really just stimulating my cervix, but that's neither here nor there.

Anyways, A membrane sweep (or strip) is when, during a vaginal exam, the examiner inserts his or her fingers into the cervix, and sweeps their finger around, separating the bag of waters from the cervix. This releases prostiglandins and sometimes is enough to get things moving. Obviously, if your body isn't ready, it's not going to do much. After my three sweeps I've had contractions and cramping for a while, but then they peter out.

Sex, IMO, is a better way of stimulating the cervix, and there are prostiglandins in semen that help with ripening. Inserting EPO vaginally (my mws have been rubbing it on my cervix) is another great way of encouraging your body to get moving.

FWIW, I'm 42w1d today, and I refuse to talk induction. I had a NST on Monday and a BPP today, and we'll repeat that next week, but as long as I'm fine and the baby's fine, I'm waiting. That may not be your cup of tea, but for me, it's better than pit.

Good luck!

[LittleLlama]

No resources, but just to agree with Ayla, when my OB did a cervical check the membranes were at least partially stripped since my cervix was apparently "really far back". I had a lot of mild ctx but still, three days later, nada.

[scheelimama]

I think it also makes a difference how good your dr/mw is at stripping the membranes. It was very uncomfortable for me this time, but it worked. We also helped things along by taking a long walk afterwards and dtd in the evening. With dd1, I don't think the mw stripped the membranes as well. It was only a little uncomfortable. Perhaps, it also depends on how far back/ready your cervix is. If it's not open or effaced enough, it will be harder for the dr/mw to do a good membrane sweep. But I think it's worth a shot for you. Much better than induction. If your body isn't ready, it won't work, but if it is, you will go on to have a natural labor how your body would have done so anyway.