From the Guidelines
Intercourse is a contraindication to using AmniSure testing. AmniSure is a test used to detect rupture of membranes (ROM) in pregnant women by identifying placental alpha microglobulin-1 (PAMG-1) protein in vaginal fluid. Sexual intercourse within the previous 24 hours can interfere with test results because semen and other substances introduced during intercourse may affect the accuracy of the test. Additionally, intercourse can potentially introduce bacteria into the vaginal canal, which is particularly concerning if membranes are actually ruptured, as this could increase infection risk, as highlighted in the management of previable and periviable preterm prelabor rupture of membranes 1.
The management of such cases involves careful consideration of maternal and fetal risks, and the use of antibiotics, as recommended by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine 1. However, the accuracy of diagnostic tests like AmniSure is crucial in guiding clinical decisions. For accurate results, patients should abstain from sexual intercourse, douching, or using vaginal medications for at least 24 hours before the test. If a patient has had recent intercourse and ROM is suspected, healthcare providers should consider alternative assessment methods such as sterile speculum examination, nitrazine testing, or ultrasound evaluation of amniotic fluid volume to determine if membranes have ruptured.
Key considerations in the management of previable and periviable preterm prelabor rupture of membranes include:
- Individualized counseling about the maternal and fetal risks and benefits of both abortion care and expectant management 1
- The use of antibiotics for pregnant individuals who choose expectant management after preterm prelabor rupture of membranes at 24 0/7 weeks of gestation or later 1
- The potential risks of infection and the importance of accurate diagnosis in guiding clinical decisions 1
From the Research
Amnisure and Intercourse
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest that intercourse is a contraindication to Amnisure 2, 3.
- The studies focus on the diagnosis of rupture of membranes using AmniSure, clinical assessment, and other immunoassays, but do not mention intercourse as a factor affecting the test's accuracy or administration.
- The AmniSure test is used to detect placental alpha microglobulin-1 in cervicovaginal secretions, and its performance is evaluated in terms of sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values 2.
- The studies suggest that AmniSure can be used as a first-line nurse-administered screening test for rupture of membranes, with high sensitivity and specificity when used as part of a clinical protocol 2, 3.
- However, the potential impact of intercourse on the test's results or the need for caution when interpreting results after intercourse is not addressed in the provided evidence.