placental problems, such as placenta previa or placenta accreta.

a baby’s birth defect or chromosomal abnormality.

carrying twins or more (depending on the type of twins and the provider's comfort level with managing a multiple pregnancy).

Your practitioner may suggest seeing an MFM for complications that arise during pregnancy, such as: They can consult with you about carrier genetic testing to determine if you or your partner may be at higher risk of passing along specific conditions, such as sickle cell disease or Tay-Sachs disease, especially if you have a child with a genetic condition. If you experience recurrent pregnancy loss, they may be able to diagnose the cause.Ī doctor or midwife may also refer a woman to an MFM if a woman had a previous high-risk pregnancy or premature delivery. If you’re planning to get pregnant and have a chronic health condition or are at risk of certain pregnancy complications, an MFM can help create a roadmap to ensure you have the healthiest pregnancy possible. MFM doctors may also work closely with other specialists such as neonatologists, pediatric cardiologists, or surgeons, as well. They’re part of a medical team, which can include an ob-gyn, midwife, or family physician who work together to make sure you get comprehensive care throughout your pregnancy. Care can start before a baby is conceived, during pregnancy, or after delivery. What does a maternal-fetal medicine doctor do?Īn MFM doctor offers recommendations for care, monitors a pregnant woman's condition, and oversees any testing or treatment that a woman or her baby needs. An MFM, also known as a perinatologist, is an ob-gyn who has undergone specialized training to manage high-risk pregnancies. Maternal-fetal medicine is an ob-gyn sub-specialty that focuses on managing pregnancy complications in a mother and/or her baby. And while you’ll likely have more doctor appointments than if you had a low-risk pregnancy, you may not ultimately face any more difficulties. Getting referred to an MFM may seem alarming at first, but seeing a specialist gives you and your baby the best chance of having a healthy pregnancy and birth.

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