Can you ask for a membrane sweep??

[daniwalkes]

Im 38 weeks today and have my midwife appointment this morning and i was wondering if / when you can request a sweep???
I have spd and it was originally disucssed that i might have an induction but everything else has been fine so far and i with a 16month old ds i really don't want to be in hospital for days on end so decided against it.
At 34 weeks i thought i was in preterm labour and when checked the mentioned that my cervix were 'very soft' but not yet dilating.
ANYWAY i am in so much pain now, getting very strong BH all day and night, baby isn't moving as much anymore (which worries me even though i know its fine and just running out of space) trying to walk is just silly as it feels like the baby will fall out (if only!)and really i just want it out!
Im not sure how the sweep thing works, are they a good idea, do they work, can you ask for them.

Im sorry its a long post for what is quite a short and straight forward question!!!!

Yes, you can. I asked mine for one (I'm 38 weeks as well) and she's promised she'll do it on my due date when the guidance here is for it to be done at 41 weeks.

I think the fact I greeted her with 'I would bite your hand off if you offered me an induction right now' when she asked how I was went in my favour.

yes you can ask BUT it may not work if things aren't ready and it can be painful

i had one at 39 weeks when i had already had a show and was around 2 cm dilated - hurt like hell but i went into labour 2 hours later

good luck!

I asked my midwife on Tuesday about having a sweep as I had to be induced in my last pregnancy. She has agreed to do so when I am 39+2 (her), then 39+4 (Consultant) and 39+6 (her). Generally, she said, they do not do them prior to 40 weeks, but felt in my case it was a reasonable and safe request. BTW I am currently 34+5.

My MW did one at 39+6. I asked when it was possible to have one and she said she could do one then if I wanted.

I was already 3cms and went into labour later that evening.