Induction is the name given for starting off your labour artificially. It is usually recommended in the following situations:
- Because your pregnancy has gone beyond 41 weeks (New guidelines at Bath RUH Rationale and impact | Inducing labour | Guidance | NICE)
- Your waters have broken but the labour has not started
- For a variety of other reasons that would benefit you or your baby's health
This can be a time of mixed emotions for most parents. Encouraging labour to start can be a lengthy, exhausting and frustrating experience combined with the excitement of meeting your baby.
Because everyone is different it is difficult to predict how long it will take for labour to start. Being in hospital throughout the process may mean that the birth is different than you had planned. It is essential to discuss your thoughts with your partner and midwife.
You may be offered a membrane sweep. This is routinely offered at 40 weeks for first pregnancies and 41 weeks if this is not your first baby. In some circumstances, this can be performed earlier if recommended by your midwife or obstetrician.
A membrane sweep involves a vaginal examination. If the midwife or doctor can reach the cervix, they will place a finger inside the cervix and make a circular or sweeping movement. Whilst a membrane sweep shouldn’t be painful, some people may find it uncomfortable depending on the position of the cervix. The person performing the membrane sweep will be as gentle as possible but it is fine to ask them to stop if needed. It is thought that the sweep helps to release the natural prostaglandins that may stimulate contractions.
The sweep helps to release natural hormones, 'prostaglandins' that may stimulate contractions.
You may experience discomfort while this is being done and it can cause the mucus plug ('show') to come away.
Afterwards you might experience:
- discomfort
- mild or occasionally strong pain
- slight bleeding
- cramps or irregular contractions
It's OK to take a mild pain killer like Paracetamol and have a warm bath if you are in pain. If your membranes rupture, the pain is bad or you have fresh, red bleeding, contact your midwife or maternity unit.