Maternal Fetal Medicine

Overview

Maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) is a subspecialty of obstetrics that focuses on managing pregnancy complications for both the mother and the developing fetus. Maternal-fetal medicine specialists, also known as perinatologists, are trained to handle high-risk pregnancies, providing diagnosis, treatment and management to ensure the health of both mother and baby. This field addresses health concerns that may arise before, during and immediately after pregnancy.

An 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. Care can start before a baby is conceived, during pregnancy, or after delivery. 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. MFM doctors may also work closely with other specialists such as neonatologists, pediatric cardiologists, or surgeons, as well.

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. 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.