Amniotic Fluid:
1. Optimal timing for specimen collection is during 14 to 18 weeks of gestation, but specimens collected at other weeks of gestation are also accepted.
2. Discard the first 2 mL of amniotic fluid.
Additional Information:
1. Place the tube in a Styrofoam container (Supply T329). Fill remaining space with packing material.
2. Unavoidably, about 1% to 2% of mailed-in specimens are not viable. If the specimen does not grow in culture, you will be notified within 7 days of receipt.
3. Bloody specimens are undesirable.
Fetal body fluid:
1. Place the tube in a Styrofoam container (Supply T329). Fill remaining space with packing material.
2. If the specimen does not grow in culture, you will be notified within 7 days of receipt.
3. Clearly indicate on tube and paperwork that specimen is fetal body fluid.
Necessary Information:
Provide a reason for referral and gestational age with each specimen, and verify the specimen source. The laboratory will not reject testing if this information is not provided, but appropriate testing and interpretation may be compromised or delayed.