Q&A

Fetal fibronectin does not affect outcomes of preterm labor

J Fam Pract. 2004 June;53(6):442-450
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  • CLINICAL QUESTION: Does use of fetal fibronectin in management of preterm labor affect age at delivery or rates of interventions?
  • STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial (nonblinded)
  • SETTING: Inpatient (ward only)
  • SYNOPSIS: Fetal fibronectin evaluation has been introduced to try to discriminate between women who are more or less likely to deliver preterm on presentation to labor and delivery for symptoms of preterm labor. It has not been shown to influence outcomes.
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BOTTOM LINE

Use of fetal fibronectin in the assessment of women presenting to labor and delivery units with symptoms of preterm labor does not affect the gestational age at delivery, frequency of use of medical interventions, length of stay in labor and delivery, or rate of inpatient admissions. (Level of evidence [LOE]=1b)

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