Will an internal examination at 38 weeks of pregnancy speed up labor?

“Labor” refers to childbirth. An internal examination at 38 weeks of pregnancy generally does not accelerate labor. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Each pregnant woman's situation is unique, and the timing and mode of delivery vary from person to person. An internal examination at 38 weeks of gestation is primarily intended to assess the health status of both the mother and the fetus and to prepare for delivery. During this examination, the doctor evaluates the mother’s physical condition—including blood pressure, weight, urine tests—and assesses fetal development. The purpose of these checks is to promptly identify and manage any potential complications, ensuring the well-being of both mother and baby.

However, even if certain abnormal indicators or discomforts are detected during the internal exam at 38 weeks, it does not necessarily mean that labor will be immediately induced. Doctors usually decide whether further interventions are needed based on the specific circumstances. In some cases, doctors may recommend observation over a period of time to better evaluate the condition of the mother and fetus, rather than inducing labor right away. The timing of delivery mainly depends on the individual conditions of the mother and the fetus. Generally, women enter the labor phase around week 40 of pregnancy, although this is not absolute. Some women may go into labor earlier, while others may experience post-term pregnancy, which might require labor induction.

Pregnant women are advised to pay close attention to their physical condition during the late stages of pregnancy to avoid adverse outcomes.