Fetal Fibronectin

FFN

The presence of fetal fibronectin (fFN) in cervicovaginal fluid is used as a predictor of risk for preterm labor when sampled after 24 weeks of pregnancy.
This test should NOT be used for SYMPTOMATIC women with one or more of the following:
1) Cervical dilatation >3 cm;
2) Ruptured membranes;
3) Cervical cerclage;
4) Moderate or gross vaginal bleeding.

This test should NOT be used for ASYMPTOMATIC women with one or more of the following:
1) multiple gestations;
2) cervical cerclage;
3) placenta previa (partial or complete);
4) sexual intercourse in the preceding 24 hours.

Assay interference from semen has not been ruled out. However, even when a patient reports having had intercourse in the previous 24 hours, a negative fetal fibronectin test result is valid.

The required collection kit is available from Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center  Chemistry.

Cervicovaginal swab in transport tube with buffer. A special collection kit is required for collection. Specimen must be obtained prior to digital examination. Care must be taken not to contaminate the swab of cervicovaginal secretions with lubricants, soaps, or disinfectants.

If testing will be done within 8 hours of collection, transport at room temperature. If not, sample must be stored at refrigerated temperature and the assay completed within 3 days of collection.

Room Temp 8 hours
Refrigerated 3 days
Frozen (-20 °C) 3 months

Cotton swabs and culturettes

PSHMC Chemistry

Solid Phase Immunosorbent Assay

Within 2 hours of receipt in Lab.

Daily, all shifts

Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center