Can anyone bluntly explain what a 'sweep' is?

[OldLadyDay]

I think I know, but everyone I ask puts in euphamisms.

I was lucky enough to avoid the sweep, but found an internal so painful that I can't imagine a sweep is any better (sorry!).

Saying that, it all pales in comparison to childbirth

I had a sweep on my due date, went into labour 6 days later so probably no connection

I found it quite uncomfortable, more embarrassing than painful if Im honest but it did hurt a bit, you feel a horrible tugging sensation does hurt a bit but not much and I am the biggest woose ever trust me