What does a positive fibronectin test mean?

A positive fetal fibronectin test is a clue that the “glue” has been disturbed and you’re at increased risk of premature birth within seven days. However, keep in mind that research hasn’t shown this test to improve outcomes immediately before and after childbirth.

How accurate is the fibronectin test?

Cervicovaginal fetal fibronectin test is most accurate in predicting spontaneous preterm birth within 7-10 days of testing among women with symptoms of threatened preterm birth before advanced cervical dilatation.

How accurate is a positive fetal fibronectin test?

Positive fFN test result: You have a 17 to 41 percent chance of delivering in the next two weeks. Depending on your risk factors, your provider may begin treating you with medications to stall labor and steroids to speed up your baby’s lung development.

Can you still go into labor with a negative fetal fibronectin test?

When the fetal fibronectin test is negative, it is unlikely that you are having preterm labor. But even if the test is positive, it does not mean for sure that you are having preterm labor. For fetal fibronectin testing, a sample of fluid is collected from the vagina or the opening to the uterus (cervix).

When to use the fetal fibronectin ( fFN ) test?

The fFN test is a relatively noninvasive tool that can help distinguish between those women who are likely to deliver shortly and those who are not. How is it used? Fetal fibronectin (fFN) is used to test pregnant women who are between 22 weeks and 35 weeks of pregnancy and are having symptoms of premature labor.

What can affect the results of a fibronectin test?

Intercourse and vaginal bleeding can affect the test results, too. If you experience vaginal bleeding or have had sex within the last 24 hours, the test probably won’t be done. Also, avoid using douches or lubricants or placing medications in your vagina shortly before the test. They also can affect test results.

Where is fetal fibronectin found in the uterus?

It is found at the interface of the chorion and the decidua (between the fetal sac and the uterine lining ). It can be thought of as an adhesive or “biological glue” that binds the fetal sac to the uterine lining. Fetal fibronectin “leaks” into the vagina if a preterm delivery is likely to occur and can be measured in a screening test.

When does fetal fibronectin break down in vaginal discharge?

The amniotic sac is the fluid-filled membrane that cushions your baby in the uterus. Fetal fibronectin is often present in vaginal discharge before week 22 of pregnancy. Fetal fibronectin also begins to break down and can be detected in vaginal discharge toward the end of pregnancy.