Mayo Clinic Health Manager
Get free personalized health guidance for you and your family.
Get StartedWhy it's done
By Mayo Clinic staffThe fetal fibronectin test is used to rule out preterm labor. It hasn't been proved useful for women who are at low risk of preterm labor, but it can provide valuable information for women who have signs or symptoms of preterm labor or those who are at high risk of preterm labor.
If the fetal fibronectin test is positive, your health care provider may take steps to address premature birth — such as prescribing medication to enhance the baby's lung maturity. If the fetal fibronectin test is negative, you can be assured that your pregnancy is likely to continue for at least another week or two.