Strip the Membranes | Pregnancy


	Search
	SmartMomma

Due Date Calculator - Early Pregnancy Symptoms

Stripping the Membranes

When you have passed your due date and you are still pregnant, your doctor may want to strip your membranes. This won’t necessarily put you into labor, but some doctors think it helps to start the process.

To strip the membranes, your doctor will do a kind of pelvic exam in which she will feel around just inside your cervix where the membranes of the amniotic sac are attached. With her finger, she will push the amniotic sac away from where it has attached to the cervix. This process breaks the bridging molecules, which stick the membranes to the inside rim of the cervix. These bridging molecules are then converted into prostaglandins, which stimulate labor.

This “pelvic exam” is not the greatest experience. Some have complained that it is a little painful, if not just rough. But when you’re past your due date and still pregnant, you’ll do just about anything to get that baby out. And you thought stripping was just for show!

Find out how your baby is developing every week. Sign up for our FREE Weekly Fetal Development Newsletter. Click here!

Related Articles

Can I be Induced?
Home Methods of Starting Labor
Labor & Delivery: What to Expect


	Health And Nutrition
	During pregnancy, your body needs your full attention, as your baby grows and your hormones go a bit crazy. SmartMomma is here to help you with some health and nutrition advice of our own.
	Labor And Delivery
	After many months of pregnancy, the big day finally arrives, whether you're ready or not. Be ready for baby's entrance into the world by reading up on what you may encounter on the best day of your life. Think happy thoughts!
	Planning For Baby
	One of the most exciting parts of pregnancy is planning for your baby's arrival. Check out SmartMomma's recommendations on baby gear, not to mention our Nursery Planner for the arrival of your little bundle. It's never too early to start planning your nursery!
	Pregnancy Effects
	What effects can pregnancy have on your body? From stretch marks to leaking breasts, SmartMomma uncovers the reality of pregnancy, along with the joys of feeling your baby's first movements. Discover the answers to your questions about all of the new and "interesting" things happening to your body during pregnancy.
	Pregnancy Stages
	Is your baby kicking yet, or just fluttering? When does he have his fingers and toes? How big is he now? Find out the answers to these questions and check out the stages of pregnancy with our Fetal Development tool.
	Prenatal Fitness
	The best way to prepare for the marathon of labor and to get your figure back quickly postpartum is by keeping up a fitness routine while pregnant. Ask your doctor what level of fitness is appropriate for you. The most popular methods of staying fit for pregnancy is walking and prenatal yoga.
	Relationships
	Pregnancy can put your relationships in a vulnerable state, as your daily activities will most likely change, along with your waistline and your emotions. This can put a strain on your relationship with your partner or spouse, as well as your relationship with others. Just remember, that you are a strong, beautiful woman, deserving of the best in life. Don't forget to remind your partner of this too!




	Preconception Pregnancy New Momma Baby Toddler Diet & Fitness Work & Career Your Life