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Abstract Sweeping of the membrans, also commonly named stripping of the membranes, is a relatively simle technique usually performed without admission to hospital. During vaginal examination, the clinician’s finger is introduced into the cervical os. Then, the inferior pole of the membranes is detached from the lower uterine segment by a circular movement of the examining finger. This intervention has the potential to initiate labour by increasing local production of prostaglandins and, thus reduce pregnancy duration or pre-empt formal induction of labour with either oxytocin, prostaglandins or aminotomy. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of this procedure at 38-40 weeks of gestation in preventing post-term pregnancy. Toachieve this aim, 80 pregnant women of in their third trimester were chosen randomly and assigned to either a control group or a study one. The litter group undergone membrane stripping after their 38 weeks of gestation by separating an approximately 2-3 cm section of the lower membranes from its cervical attachment with at least two circumferential passes of the index finger. This procedure was done weekly till delivery. |