Refusing a sweep?

[MumToSophie]

Just looking for some advice. My due date was yesterday and I have an appointment with my midwife tomorrow. The last time I saw her she said that if I hadn't had the baby yet she could give me a sweep if I wanted. The thing is I'm not sure if I do want one.

I feel a bit daft about refusing a sweep as my only reasons for not wanting one are that I'll only be 2 days over my due date and I'd really hoped that this little one would just come naturally (I had to be induced with my first dd) I've also heard a few horror stories and a lot of people telling me they are painful and don't work.

I just wondered if anyone else had refused one or if it would be silly as if the midwife is recommending one, then surely it's for the best?

I had one last time, I won't be bothering in the future.

Remember, there is no way of ever knowing if they actually work or if it's just pure luck. They're only performed on women who are overdue and are starting to dilate anyway, so it may well be that they do sod all and that everyone who has had one would have gone into labour when they did without the MW having a furtle.

If you don't want it then don't bother, it's not exactly pleasant (nothing horrific but IMO it's not worth it).

They will offer them in line with their policies and protocol, not necessarily what is best for the individual (along with routine induction at +10 or +14 etc)

You don't have to have one.

I went 40+8. my midwife reluctantly offered on my due date but didn't push it.

Your dates are unlikely to be spot on - the due date is a guide. Give it a week or so then see how you feel!

Thanks for your advice, you've both pretty much said what I've been thinking to myself! I'm just going to say no to the sweep tomorrow and wait for this little one to come out in her own time :)

they are said to work something like 1 in 8 cases (so not great) and come with a slight risk of infection. i refused one at +10, and went into labour that day anyway.

no doubt if i'd had the sweep, that would have been included as a 'successful' sweep.

I had 2, neither worked. Hope your baby makes an appearance soon!

Wouldn't bother. It can be painful. The MW needs to be able to get a finger in your cervix (which therefore needs to be soft and about 1cm). If she can then you're on your way anyway. If not it really can hurt (i know), won't do much good, and increases the risk of infection. Also, if she accidentally breaks your waters you then set a clock ticking, as (I think) if there is no labour 48 hours after waters breaking you will be looking at chemical induction (pessary and / or drip).

FWIW, it sounds like the MW is offering not recommending. If she examines you and baby and you are both well, I'd leave it for a few days.

I'm so glad I asked for advice now as I wasn't aware the success rate was so low or about the risk of infection. Also, I've been having a few pains on and off all day so I'm hoping it wont be too long anyway.