There’s a simple medical procedure that can help ease worries of some moms-to-be: FullTerm, the Fetal Fibronectin Test. Similar to a Pap test, this FDA-approved assessment can help detect the likelihood of preterm birth and is recommended for high-risk women, such as those who are carrying twins or have delivered prematurely before, and for women experiencing symptoms like early contractions. A sample of secretions taken with a swab is analyzed for the presence of fetal fibronectin, a gluelike substance that holds the baby in place in the womb, during weeks 22 to 35 of pregnancy. If the test is positive, there’s an increased likelihood the baby will arrive early. “I have become a huge advocate,” says mom of two Kara Glad, 33, of Amesbury, MA, who was tested during her second and third pregnancies after losing her first baby to premature birth. She appreciated the peace of mind provided by the procedure, which helped her avoid unnecessary drugs and treatment. According to the March of Dimes, one in eight babies in the United States is born prematurely.