What a Positive Test Result Means
A positive test result means your body is leaking fetal fibronectin, a sign that your body may be getting ready to deliver.1 Listen to your body!
Not everyone with a positive test result delivers early. The test can be repeated as often as every 2 weeks to monitor your ongoing risk.1
Developing a plan of action
Knowing this information will help you and your doctor prepare for a possible preterm birth, and take appropriate steps to help manage your pregnancy.
Depending on what week of pregnancy you are in, your doctor may suggest:2
- Limiting activities
- Reducing stress
- Bed rest
- Finding and treating any undiagnosed infection(s)
- Watching for cervical changes that would signal onset of labor
- Consulting with a high-risk pregnancy specialist
- Tocolytic drugs, which are used to alleviate preterm contractions
- Corticosteroids, which may aid in your baby’s lung development
- Monitoring for other symptoms that may be indicative of preterm labor
- Additional intervention, if and when preterm labor begins
Making preparations
Knowing there is a risk of preterm delivery gives you the chance to make personal and practical preparations at home with your family:
- Getting enough rest, as directed by your doctor.
- Dismissing any feelings of guilt you may have about taking care of yourself. This isn’t self-indulgence — it’s doing the right thing for your baby!
- Preparing your support system. Ask for help from your family and friends, and plan ahead for any support you might need to keep your household running and your other children cared for.
- Being ready for delivery (packing a bag, planning transportation).
- Making sure you have everything you’ll need when you bring your baby home.
References
- Rapid fFN for the TliIQ System [package insert]. AW-04196-002, Rev. 003. Marlborough, MA: Hologic, Inc.; 2015.
- Preterm labor and premature birth: Are you at risk? https://www.marchofdimes.org/complications/preterm-labor-and-premature-b.... Accessed October 11, 2017.
Tested Positive?
Learn more about bed rest, what to do if you’ve tested positive, and more.
Mom Resources
A curated list of sites for expecting mothers to learn, grow, and find support
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