Is stripping membranes a good natural way to start labor?

by | Feb 13, 2023 | You Ask, Henci Answers

You ask:

This is my third baby and I’m so uncomfortable. It’s hard to get around and take care of my other kids, and I’m just exhausted at the end of the day. My midwife said we can strip my membranes once it’s closer to my due date as a natural way to get labor going. Is this a good way to start labor?

I answer:

I hear ‘ya. “Membrane sweeping for induction of labor,” midwife, author, educator, and researcher Dr. Sara Wickham’s take on the topic, should provide you what you need to decide whether you want to take your midwife up on her offer. In a nutshell, membrane sweeping appears to have a modest effect on starting labor compared with women who didn’t have the procedure, but as with any procedure or medication, it has some potential drawbacks.

Medical Disclaimer: Henci Goer is neither a physician nor a midwife. Content and information on this website are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Users are advised to consult their physician or midwife when making decisions about care.

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