When do they start doing fFN tests?

Just wondering!!

 

I don't know when they usually start doing them, or even if it is normal practice if you don't have any complications. I didn't get one until I went into L&D at 24 weeks.

 

I could be wrong, but I think they only do it if you suspect you are in pre-term labor and/or if your cervix is unusually short...I don't think it's a routine thing that they "do"...or at least, I haven't had one nor has anyone ever suggested I would...

 

What is a FFN test? I know...stupid question....but I have no idea!

Thanks!

 

I delivered at 38 weeks 4 days and never had that test done. I think they only do those if you are showing some kind of sign of preterm labor.

 

I think it might depend on your OB. Mine gave me one routinely every two weeks (because it is supposed to be "good" for two weeks)

Also, I think it doesn't really work until you are more than 24 weeks. I can't remember the exact week when he started doing the tests...My doc told me that if it came back negative we were 99% sure I would not go into labor. If it came back positive, it was not necessarily an indication I would go into labor...he said the test was more reliable with negative results than positive ones.

FFN stands for Fetal fibronectin..it checks cervical secretions that are supposedly not there if you are not going to go into labor.

I never had a positive result and had to be induced at 34w5days due to preeclampsia.

Hope that helps!

 

Check my Siggy for exact week number but I think I started to have mine at 24 weeks.
and had them every OB appointment until 30 weeks.