FFN or fetal fibronectin test is a screening test done during pregnancy to determine whether a woman is expected to have premature labor at some point during late pregnancy. Some women are considered at risk to experiencing preterm or premature labor and a FFN test may help doctors determine probability and help affected women prepare for a safe delivery.
Fetal fibronectin is a type of protein that is produced by the developing fetus inside a woman’s womb. Â These cells are typically formed at the area where the fetal sac and lining of the uterus meets. Â In common terms, FFN or fetal fibronectin provides adhesion between the fetal sac and the uterine lining. Â Anytime this part of the womb is disturbed, some of this protein will be discharged through vaginal secretions. Â When this happens, a positive FFN screening test may result and could indicate possible preterm labor and even delivery.
FFN tests are done through vaginal swabbing. Â In the actual procedure, a sterile speculum is typically inserted into the woman’s vagina for several seconds to ensure that secretions are absorbed. Â The sample secretions will then be tested under specific laboratory conditions to check if FFN or fetal fibronectin is present. Â For women who are considered high-risk for preterm labor and delivery, FFN screening tests may be prescribed by doctors starting on the 22nd week of pregnancy up to the 34th week. Â Negative results are considered good predictors that preterm labor will not occur in the coming week or so. Â Positive results meanwhile may mean two things. Â One is that the woman tested is expected to have premature labor in the coming days. Â In other cases, a positive FFN screening test may also mean that preterm labor does occur but only after several days or even weeks. Â In most cases, FFN tests are done for monitoring purposes and to help high-risk women to eventually have a safe delivery.
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