The swab will quantitatively measure the fetal fibronectin (fFN), a protein, which will help finding out whether a woman is likely to give birth prematurely or not.
The research lead Andrew Shennan said the updated fetal fibronectin test reduces the need for low-risk women to stay in for observation or get treatment when they don’t have to.
"This updated test is more precise, so we can give a more definitive diagnosis," Shennan added.
The fFN test uses Hologic-developed 10Q analyzer to determine the level of risk and provides the report in 10 minutes.
The study has been funded by baby charity Tommy’s.
Tommy chief executive Jane Brewin said, ”We are delighted that the funding we provide enables research and medical advances like this predictive test, to ensure women receive the best care possible, and their babies the best start in life."
The fFN test is also expected to decrease costs for the NHS.