molecular weight glycoprotein produce by the chorioamniotic membranes and trophoblasts. It is hypothesized that it functions as a biologic glue that maintains the integrity of the Chorionic-decidual interface. 16 Levels are often elevated until 20 weeks of gestation and beyond that they are miniscule or undetectable in the cervix or vagina, most likely because of the tight application of the membranes to the decidua. 16 Many studies have found a correlation between detection of fibronectin and preterm birth. Its presence not being considered the cause of preterm delivery, rather the result of a disruption (by inflammation or bleeding), in the chorionic-decidual interface from which it leaks out. 16, 17 The value of fibronectin as a predictor is further supported by a screening conducted by the US National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) in which women with a positive fetal fibronectin test at 24 weeks had a 60-fold increase in the risk of preterm delivery within 4 weeks after being screened. 16Prevention against premature birth is the most important issue at hand in terms of improving infant mortality and morbidity. Research has focused on pharmacologic therapy. It is justifiable. It would be ideal to prescribe a pill and make all the problems go away. We have not gotten to the point where preterm birth can be prevented, however, there have been some improvements in morbidity and short delay of labor. 18, 19 The process of stopping labor is called Tocolysis. There are some grave side effects of tocolytics. Their use must be monitored and depends on careful assessment of the mother and fetus. The most commonly used tocolytics are beta-mimetics and Magnesium Sulfate. They both have noticeable side effects, but Magnesium Sulfate is less harmful. 18 In three articles the use of Magnesium sulfate was approved in stopping acute preterm labor. Maintenance therapy, the use Magnesium Sulfate to prevent rec...
