Fetal Fibronectin (fFN) Test To Assess Risk of Preterm Birth

The Fetal Fibronectin Test helps predict premature birth risk in pregnant women, aiding in timely intervention for healthier pregnancies.

Fetal Fibronectin Test

Here are the basic details of the Fetal Fibronectin Test.

*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

Fetal Fibronectin Test Means

Fetal Fibronectin Test assesses the risk of premature birth in pregnant women.

• Performed between 22 to 35 weeks of pregnancy for early intervention.
• Predicts the likelihood of preterm delivery within 2 weeks.
• A negative result indicates a low risk of imminent preterm birth.
• Used for high-risk pregnancies and those with symptoms of preterm labor.

Fetal Fibronectin Test Purpose

The purpose of the Fetal Fibronectin Test is to:

• Fetal Fibronectin Test helps predict preterm birth risk.
• Identifies pregnant women at risk of early delivery.
• Guides timely interventions for healthier pregnancies.
• Aids in preventing premature birth complications.
• Valuable for managing high-risk pregnancies.

Fetal Fibronectin Test Preparation

Here is the basic preparation for the Fetal Fibronectin Test.

Before Test

• No special diet or medication restrictions.
• Collect the sample between 22 to 35 weeks of pregnancy.
• Avoid sexual intercourse within 24 hours of the test.

During Test

• A swab collects cervical or vaginal fluid.
• The sample is taken before pelvic exams or vaginal ultrasounds.
• Follow healthcare provider's instructions.

After Test

• No downtime; resume normal activities.
• Sample must be sent to the laboratory within one day.
• Discuss results and follow-up with your healthcare provider.

Fetal Fibronectin Test Procedure

Here is the basic Fetal Fibronectin Test Procedure.

• Swab used to collect cervical/vaginal fluid.
• Sample taken from posterior vagina or outside cervix.
• Avoid sample contamination.
• Before pelvic exam or vaginal ultrasound.
• Mail sample to lab or analyze at home.
• No downtime after test.
• Discuss results and follow-up with healthcare provider.

Fetal Fibronectin Test Result

• Negative result: Indicates low risk of imminent preterm birth.
• Positive result: Associated with increased preterm birth risk; needs closer monitoring.
• Clinical evaluation required to determine appropriate next steps.

Fetal Fibronectin Test Normal Result

Here is the normal range of the Fetal Fibronectin Test.

Fetal Fibronectin Test Interpretation

Here is the Interpretation of the Fetal Fibronectin Test.

Fetal Fibronectin Test Positive

Here are some possible causes of positive fFN Test.

A positive Fetal Fibronectin Test suggests an increased risk of preterm birth and the need for closer monitoring and potential interventions.

Fetal Fibronectin Test Negative

Here are some possible causes of negative fFn Test.

A negative Fetal Fibronectin Test suggests a low risk of preterm birth, stable cervical condition, and reduced neonatal risk.

Specimen Requirements For Fetal Fibronectin Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the Fetal Fibronectin Test.

Fetal Fibronectin Test is Safe?

• Fetal Fibronectin Test is generally safe for pregnant women.
• It involves a vaginal or cervical swab.
• No sedation or recovery time is required.
• Proper sample collection and handling are crucial.
• Avoid contamination and interference with the sample.
• Follow healthcare provider's instructions.
• Results can help assess the risk of preterm delivery.

When Do You Get Fetal Fibronectin Test Results? 

• Fetal Fibronectin Test results are usually available within a few days.
• The timeline may vary depending on the laboratory.
• Discuss the reporting time with your healthcare provider.
• Results help assess the risk of preterm delivery quickly.
• Timely results aid in determining the need for interventions.
• Your healthcare provider will interpret and discuss the results with you.

Fetal Fibronectin Test Limitation

Here is the basic limitation of Fetal Fibronectin Test.

• Not definitive for preterm birth prediction
• Limited accuracy in certain cases
• False negatives and positives possible.

Fetal Fibronectin Test Risk Factors

Here are some of the risk factors of the Fetal Fibronectin Test.

• Previous preterm birth
• Multiple pregnancies
• Short cervix
• Late or no prenatal care
• Chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes
• Uterine, cervical, or placental issues
• Infections during pregnancy
• Substance use
• History of multiple miscarriages
• Maternal age and race

Doctor Recommendations After Fetal Fibronectin Test Result

 Here are the Doctor's recommendations or consult a specialist after the Fetal Fibronectin Test.

Fetal Fibronectin Test Price

Here are the estimated Fetal Fibronectin Test Prices in India with different top cities:

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

Summary

Overall, The Fetal Fibronectin Test helps predict preterm labor risk in pregnant women. A positive result may lead to preterm birth prevention measures. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

Reference

• Fetal fibronectin - Wikipedia [1].
• Fetal fibronectin testing for reducing the risk of preterm birth - NIH [2].