What is fetal fibronectin (fFN)?
Fetal fibronectin (fFN) is a multifunctional protein substance that is located within the choriodecidual interface and is presumed to have glue-like responsibilities. Fetal fibronectin is normally present in the cervicovaginal secretions when the deciduas capsularis and parietalis fuse. It is presumed that the presence of fFN in cervicovaginal secretions between 22 and 35 weeks is an abnormal finding and may signify a disruption of the membranes surfaces either from uterine contractions or inflammation from infection. How is the fFN test performed? Testing for fFN is very simple and safe. It is imperative that the specimen be obtained prior to procedures that may disrupt the cervix and erroneously release fFN and more than 24 hours after previous manipulation (digital or ultrasonographic cervical examination). Additionally, the specimen should not be obtained in the presence of the following: * Cervical dilation > 3 cm * Rupture of the membranes * Recent use (< 24 hours) of soaps, gels
