Fetal Fibronectin (fFN)

The specimen should be obtained from the posterior fornix of the vagina during a speculum examination. The Hologic Rapid fFN Collection Kit is the only acceptable specimen collection system which can be used to collect specimens for this assay. The Dacron swab provided in the Specimen Collection Kit should be inserted into the vagina and lightly rotated across the posterior fornix for approximately 10 seconds to absorb the cervicovaginal secretions. Once the specimen is obtained, carefully remove the swab from the vagina and place it into the tube of buffer provided with the Specimen Collection Kit. Use only one Specimen Collection Device per patient. To safely interpret the Fetal Fibronectin Enzyme Immunoassay or Rapid fFN test result, the sample must be collected before performance of any activities or procedures which might disrupt the cervix, e.g., coitus, digital cervical examination, vaginal ultrasound, microbiologic culture of cervical secretions, or pap smear. Finally, the test result is invalid if the swab is contaminated by lubricants, soaps, or disinfectants, e.g., K-Y Jelly lubricant, Betadine disinfectant, hexachlorophene, Monistat cream. Soaps or disinfectants may interfere with the antibody-antigen reaction. The method of collection is also described in the directional insert for the Specimen Collection Kit. Send at room temperature within 8 hours of collection or refrigerate for up to 3 days.