A 45-year-old member asked:
What does it mean to "strip membranes" in pregnancy?
3 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in
A Verified Doctoranswered
A US doctor answeredLearn more
Induction method: While your doctor or midwife is checking your cervical dilation at the end of your pregnancy, they can sweep their finger in a circle to slightly loosen the bag of water from the top of the cervix. This "membrane stripping" can release a hormone called prostaglandin that may help to induce labor if your body is ready. Spotting and some cramping is common after this exam.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.7k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Jeff Livingstonanswered
Obstetrics and Gynecology 24 years experience
Vigorous cervix exam: In the last couple of weeks of pregnancy when your cervix is dilated your doctor can sweep a finger in the space between the cervix and the amniotic membranes. This releases a chemical called prostaglandins which can stimulate contractions. Stripping the membranes is thought to help people go into labor sooner.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.6k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Katherine Sutherlandanswered
Gynecology 45 years experience
Encourage Labor: Your doctor may strip the membranes if you are at or past your due date to encourage labor. If the cervix has started to dilate, the doctor can slip his or her finger between the cervix and the membranes with a sweeping circular motion going all around the cervix. This releases prostaglandins and may result in cramping or the onset of contractions.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.6k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Sep 15, 2017
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