What does an internal sweep involve?

[mummy22gorgeousboys]

I know it sounds like a silly question, but I'm booked in for one.

What will the MW do and is it painful?

Thanks

Sorry about the mix up - children started jumping up & down etc and must have put me off!!! But hey, a favourable cervix is cause for celebration whether the OP's or not :)

I found it uncomfortable, but nothing compared with labour, tbh. It just feels like a rather rough internal examination.

Mine worked a treat (that, combined with the threat of an ELCS which I really didn't want), and I went into labour within 24 hours.

Just wanted to say a huge thank you to Reikizen for the cervix info...I had one yest 40 +6 and found the whole thing rather upsetting. This is first baby and the first time in pregnancy that i have been examined. I have been examined for other reasons using a metal clamp thing and that was not painful but the 'sweep' really was! After much rummaging (about 3 minutes) the lady said it was not possible and notes say prosteria cervix/ 50% effaced so that explains the discomfort I felt. Also, maybe because i wasnt prepared but was slightly freaked by the blood covered glove that she took off...sorry but overall not a very good experience and has made me feel like if i did'nt cope well with the sweep how am i gonna cope with labour...terrified!

Lou It is very differnt to labour - Labour is more painful but it at least doesn't involve someone else doing something to you. I think it is a very different experience, not just related to pain threshold. Don't compare them, internal exams are horrible (and maybe note on your birth plan to keep them to a minimum, as I have this time around!)

Nothing from me. Lots of cramping last night, but not a sasuage today. Seeing MW again Thursday for another go if neccesary

Lou what Else said is right. The first sweep I had with DD1 was a bit rough and I did feel a bit shaky, MW had very short fat fingers :( it does vary depending on who does it as well as your cervix etc. Don't be worried - having someone else's hand thrust up you is never going to be fun - labour is very different, though in both situations a bit of deep breathing helps!

Else don't feel discouraged - I bet it has helped move things along, though it can be a gradual process. Hope you won't need another, and are holding a baby on thurs instead!! xx

Lou - another voice to say try not to judge labour from an (unsuccessful) sweep. Between both my previous labours, the most discomfort I felt was when I had to lie on my back for a VE - it completely changed how the labour felt and made it a lot less bearable. Fortunately I had a lovely MW who worked with me and managed to complete nearly all the VEs between contractions. And also to agree with Else - VEs are not compulsory, and you might want to make sure the MW explains exactly why they want to do one (what they want to know and what they're going to use that information for) before deciding whether you agree that's a good enough reason to agree to the procedure.