Fetal fibronectin is also called  fFN. This protein acts like a kind of glue during pregnancy. It attaches the amniotic sac to the lining of the uterus. Fetal fibronectin is found in vaginal discharge up to 22 weeks of pregnancy and again at the end of pregnancy ( about 1 to 3 weeks before labor starts ).
 

 
Fetal fibronectin test is done when your health care provider is concerned about preterm labor. The test will help your provider predict your chances of having a premature birth. It measures how much Fetal fibronectin is the vagina and cervix.

How is Fetal fibronectin test done ?

 
The fetal fibronectin test is like a pap smear. You will lie on your back on an examination table. Your health care provider will place a speculum in your vagina and use a cotton swab to take fluid samples of your vagina and cervix. The sample is then sent to the lab for analysis. The results are usually ready within 24 hours.

Your health care provider may also do a transvaginal ultrasound. This is a prenatal test that uses sound waves to show a picture of the baby in the womb. The ultrasound is done to :

• measure the length of the cervix which often shortens  before labor
• check the size, shape and position of the baby

The ultrasound may take about an hour.

Are there any risks ?

 
Fetal fibronectin test  poses no harm to you or your baby. However false positives are common. This may cause unnecessary anxiety and treatment.

What do the test results mean ?

 
Positive results : This means you have  Fetal fibronectin  present. If you are between pregnancy weeks 22 and  34 and get  a positive test result, you are at risk of preterm labor. Your doctor will recommend you take it easy. He may even give you medication to prevent premature labor or give you an  injection of potent steroids to speed your baby’s lung development.

Negative results : This is an indication that fetal fibronectin  is not present. It means that you are not likely to have your baby for another 2 weeks.
 
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