Who can/generally does perform a sweep?

[slimyak]

I may have to have an induction because of Gestational Diabetes and this would be done at 38weeks. Diabetes Midwife said 'they' would do a sweep the day before, but from what I understand a sweep is only going to work if labour is imminent anyway. I shall be arguing for being left unless there is a medical rather than policy need for early induction. If baby and placenta are fine they can keep their sweepey/pessery/drippy paws off me!

I want to know who does sweeps basically from a dignity point of view. When in natural labour with DD1 anyone could have had a look up my fanjo - I wouldn't have given a damn. But at 38weeks not in labour and feeling a bit vulnerable I'm dreading the men in white coats with the following of 3rd year med students.

Hi Slimyak. Was in exactly your boat six months ago. Sounds like you know the reasons for early induction with GD and are well armed with the protocol vs medical indication argument. Be warned however, it's a tough battle to fight. Let me know if you'd like any more details.

For me, I actually asked for a sweep at 38 weeks. It had previously worked for me with DD (at 40+6 however) and I thought it was worth a try before an official induction was booked. I had no signs that DS was likely to budge early and TBH I think the diabetic team thought they were humouring me .

My sweep was done at home, on my bed, by my community midwife. I undressed the bottom half and waited with a towel over me, she came into the room, did the deed and then left me to get dressed. If you've never had a sweep it's similar to a smear but without the scrapey feeling. I didn't find it painful as such, just a bit uncomfortable and "crampy". If anything, it was odder having it at home. I would probably have preferred the surgery bed.

MW pronounced things to be unfavourable - , cervix long, head still high. Two days later DS was born (after a very quick labour) a full week before the induction I'd reluctantly agreed to book in at 39+5.

Good luck with whatever you decide.

Just to add - you can always refuse medical students' attendance.