Fetal fibronectin and bacterial vaginosis are associated with preterm birth in women who are symptomatic for preterm labor.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to codify the relationship between bacterial vaginosis/fetal fibronectin and preterm labor/birth. In this prospective study, 185 women who were symptomatic for preterm labor were assessed for bacterial vaginosis and fetal fibronectin. These women comprised 4 groups: group A (n=23 women; +bacterial vaginosis/+fetal fibronectin); group B (n=31 women; -bacterial vaginosis/+fetal fibronectin); group C (n=47 women; +bacterial vaginosis/-fetal fibronectin); and group D (n=84 women; -bacterial vaginosis/-fetal fibronectin). The time interval from gestational age at testing until delivery was significantly shorter for groups A and B versus groups C and D (P < or =.05 and P <.001, respectively). Similarly, delivery at <32 weeks of gestation was increased in group B (26%) compared with groups A (9%), C (2%), and D (5%; P <.009; odds ratio, 165.90; 95% CI, 30.02, 916.08). Women who are symptomatic for preterm labor should be considered for fetal fibronectin and bacterial vaginosis testing.