Test Predicts When Preterm Delivery Is Unlikely

Testing pregnant women for a protein called fetal fibronectin is useful for “ruling out” a preterm delivery, new research suggests. This may provide reassurance that a delivery is not imminent so it’s okay to return to work or resume normal activities. If the test is negative, the chances of delivering early are very slim. With a positive result, however, the meaning is less clear -- delivery may or may not occur early.

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