Cervix Stretch

fitmomma2b

My Dr has told me to do some research on cervix stretching as he says he may offer it to me at my 38 week appointment. I've done a bit of research but curious what other mommas have to say about their experiences. Was it painful? How did the Dr do it? What happened after?

Thank you.

fitmomma2b

No medical reason. Just an option he's offering. Is there a medical reason not to do it? TIA

MJMum524

Hi, I had it done at 38 weeks and 39 weeks. I'm still pregnant! So, has not worked for me. Both times it was holy crap grip the table uncomfortable, clenching face experience. Try it if you like and if you do, hope it works and you only need it done once! I was convinced it would work for me to no avail

MJMum524

Also, sorry, too tired to just edit..One of the risks by OB mentioned to me that I was concerned with was there is a risk of waters being broken. I think they won't do it if you are GBS+ for this reason. Probably depends how dilated you are...

cubberss

fitmomma2b said:

No medical reason. Just an option he's offering. Is there a medical reason not to do it? TIA

Yes there are. Hands in your vagina are introducing bacteria, and there is the potential that the doctor can break your waters. Baby will come when he/she is ready. There is no need to rush things along *especially* when you're not even to your due date yet.

fitmomma2b

I never thought about the bacteria. My Dr has told me that intercourse is still okay so I would figure if that's okay then my Dr's hands would be too. I know that doesn't address the other concerns though.

biancakoz

There is a chance that the Dr can break your waters, which is why they check how dilated and effaced you are first before doing it.  A friend was very effaced (80 or 90%) but only a few cm dilated and the Dr told her she would not sweep her membranes because she could rupture her water.  As it was, when she checked her she ended up breaking her water.  If you are something like 3cm and 50% effaced, it can help jump start labor.  I had my membranes swept with my first at 37 weeks (3cm and 50%) and again at 38 weeks (3cm and 70%).  I ended up going into labor 3 days later after the 2nd sweep.  It didn't really bother me any more than the internal exam did, since all they're really doing is sweeping their finger around your cervix.  You can always say no if you're not comfortable with it though.  If you can still have sex and be inserting Evening Primrose Oil capsules behind your cervix, I wouldn't worry too much about a gloved Dr's hand up my vee   That's just me though!