Why no sweep at 40 weeks with second babies?

[wineymummy]

It seems that a sweep at 40 weeks is standard for first time mums but for subsequent babies it's not offered until 41 weeks. Does anyone know why? Is it simply because we are more likely to go into spontaneous labour by then so not deemed necessary? But if sweeps are (more or less) harmless and cost the NHS nothing, should I be able to request one at my 40 week appointment? My first was born 37+4 so I have been on tenterhooks for weeks now and really want to kick start this labour, especially given the changes to the induction process in current circumstances.

I don't thinks that's a standard across all trusts as I wasn't given a sweep with my first until 41 weeks.

I'm sure you can request one at your 40 week appointment but they are not harmless and the midwife will advise you if you have a clinical need of one.

I wasn't able to have a sweep until 41 weeks with my first either

It's not standard across the country and there is some debate about how effective they are. Generally it is preferable to wait for baby to arrive naturally. Good luck 💚