If they decide it is medically necessary to induce labour, first your doctor or midwife will do an internal examination by feeling inside your vagina. They will feel your cervix to see if it is ready for labour. This examination will also help them decide on the best method for you.

Can a cervical exam start labor?

There's a common misconception that by performing a cervical exam at the end of pregnancy, a doctor or midwife can tell if labor will begin soon or if vaginal birth is recommended or not. This is not the case.

Can I refuse internal exam in labour?

The legal position is that an individual does not have to consent to any medical treatment that they do not wish to have, and that includes vaginal examinations at any stage during labour and birth.