What is preterm birth?

Preterm birth is defined as a birth before 37 weeks of gestation (about 8 months and 1 week). The earlier a baby is born, the greater the chance that he or she will have health problems.1 Many of the problems caused by preterm birth can be managed or treated. However, some babies who are born prematurely will face lifelong health challenges. Additionally, half of all preterm births occur in women with no known risks.2


Preterm birth risk test


The Rapid fFN® test is one of the most powerful predictors of preterm birth and is commonly used in patients experiencing symptoms of preterm labor.2


What are the symptoms of preterm labor?


Even if you don’t have any known risk factors, you should be aware of the warning signs of preterm labor.
Contact your doctor, nurse or midwife if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:3

  • Contractions (your abdomen tightens like a fist) every 10 minutes or more often
  • Change in vaginal discharge (leaking fluid or bleeding from your vagina)
  • Pelvic pressure (feeling that your baby is pushing down)
  • Low, dull backache
  • Cramps that feel like your period
  • Abdominal cramps, with or without diarrhea

Learn the signs of preterm labor and how fFN testing can help determine your risk of a preterm birth.


Who is at risk?


Although half of all preterm births occur in women with no known risk factors, several issues can make preterm delivery more likely.2

Biological Risk Icon

Biological risk factors4

  • Previous preterm labor or preterm birth – Women who have had a premature baby before or who have experienced symptoms of preterm labor in a previous pregnancy.
  • Twins or triplets – Women who are pregnant with twins, triplets or more are at an increased risk because of the added weight and pressure.
  • Cervical abnormalities – These can be detected by your healthcare provider and could be inherent issues (such as a short cervix) or a result of previous cervical surgeries.
  • In vitro fertilization (IVF) – The same underlying health conditions that can make IVF necessary may also put some women at increased risk for preterm labor.
  • A variety of other health conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure and clotting disorders (thrombophilia).
Environmental Risk Icon

Lifestyle and environmental risk factors4

  • Late or no prenatal care
  • Smoking
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Using illegal drugs or abusing prescription drugs
  • Domestic violence, including physical, sexual or emotional abuse
  • Lack of social support
  • Stress
  • Long working hours with long periods of standing
  • Exposure to certain environmental pollutants


Talk to your doctor


Download our Rapid fFN® test discussion guide to help you and your doctor determine the right choice when assessing your risk of preterm birth.


Talk to your doctor


Download our Rapid fFN® test discussion guide to help you and your doctor determine the right choice when assessing your risk of preterm birth.