The SWEEP Trial: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF AARHUS · Jun 20, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called the SWEEP Trial, is studying whether gently sweeping the membranes (a procedure known as membrane sweeping) in pregnant women close to their due date can help start labor naturally before 41 weeks and 3 days. Membrane sweeping involves a healthcare provider using a finger to gently separate the membranes of the amniotic sac from the cervix, which may encourage the body to begin labor. The trial will compare women who receive up to three membrane sweeps, spaced 2-3 days apart, with women who do not have this procedure done.

Women who might be eligible for this study are those pregnant with one baby, with the baby positioned head-down, planning to have a vaginal delivery, and between about 40 and 40 weeks plus 2 days of pregnancy. The study does not include women under 18, those who have had a previous cesarean section, or have certain pregnancy complications like ruptured membranes or vaginal bleeding. If women join the trial, they will be randomly assigned to either have membrane sweeping or not, and they will be asked to answer short daily surveys about their symptoms and, if applicable, their experience with the procedure until their baby is born. After birth, they will also complete a follow-up survey about their birth experience. This study aims to better understand if membrane sweeping can help women go into labor naturally and avoid medical induction.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Singleton pregnant women at term with a fetus in cephalic presentation and an intended vaginal delivery.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • \< 18 years of age
• • Unable to speak and understand Danish
• • Uncertain gestational age , defined as gestational age not determined by Crown-Rump-Length
• • Previous cesarean section
• • Ruptured membranes
• • Painful contractions
• • Vaginal bleeding more than bloody discharge
• • Membrane sweeping performed within the last two weeks
• • Already scheduled IOL or any known indication for IOL at or prior to GA 41+3 based on local or national guidelines
• • Known low-lying placenta (placenta located \<3 cm from the internal orifice verified by transvaginal ultrasound)