Purpose of the Screening
- Determine fetal lung maturity before a preterm delivery.
- Assess the risk of Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) in the newborn.
- Assist physicians in making safer delivery timing decisions.
This screening assesses the readiness of the fetal lungs for natural breathing after birth, minimizing the risk of respiratory distress syndrome and ensuring safe, well-informed medical decisions for delivery.
Scientific name: Fetal Lung Maturity Screening (L/S Ratio)
A laboratory test measuring the lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio in amniotic fluid to evaluate fetal lung development, crucial for managing preterm births and preventing neonatal respiratory complications.