Women’s Motivations for and Experiences with Membrane Sweeping to Promote Spontaneous Onset of Labor: A Qualitative Study

Studies have shown how women often feel hesitant about induction of labor interventions and that most women prefer spontaneous onset of labor. Membrane sweeping (MS) is a simple, commonly used procedure to promote spontaneous onset. However, little is known about the lived experience.<br/>This insight is essential to support women-centered counseling and inform clinical practice. This study explores women’s motivations for and experiences with MS and its perceived impact on the birth experience.<br/>This is a qualitative study. A thematic analysis will be conducted based on interviews via six interconnected steps as reported by Braun and Clark. The interviews will follow a semi-structured guide created for the study. We aim to recruit 15 women, who have undergone MS recently. It will include topics such as motivation for and experiences with MS, expectations, decision-making processes, procedural knowledge, relationships with healthcare providers, and the perception of<br/>induction.<br/>The study is in its initial phase. Therefore, no data or results have not been obtained to be presented at the congress. Thus, the protocol will be presented at KMS 2026.<br/>No conclusion has been made yet. We hope the future insights will impact clinical practice and counseling. By basing findings on women's own experiences, the results can guide to more empathetic and tailored communication and contribute to care that truly reflects women's needs and<br/>values.<br/>This study is part of the ongoing SWEEP trial, a multicenter randomized controlled trial, coordinated by Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University Hospital. SWEEP will<br/>investigate a range of quantitative outcomes regarding membrane sweeping.<br/>The SWEEP trail study has received funding from ‘Sundhedsdonationer’.