Maternal-fetal medicine, also known as perinatology, is a branch of medicine that focuses on managing health concerns of the mother and fetus prior to, during, and shortly after pregnancy. Maternal-fetal medicine specialists are physicians who subspecialize within the field of obstetrics. Their training typically includes a four-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology followed by a three-year fellowship. They may perform prenatal tests, provide treatments, and perform surgeries. They act both as a consultant during lower-risk pregnancies and as the primary obstetrician in especially high-risk pregnancies.
Maternal-fetal medicine specialists attend to patients who fall within certain levels of maternal care. These levels correspond to health risks for the baby, mother, or both, during pregnancy. They use ultrasound, blood tests, and procedures such as amniocentesis to look inside the womb and evaluate the developing fetus. They use advanced skills in 3D and 4D ultrasound and fetal echocardiogram to screen for birth defects and chromosome problems. They also work closely with genetic counselors to offer tests such as integrated screening, noninvasive prenatal testing, chorionic villous sampling, and amniocentesis. Improvements in ultrasound, prenatal diagnosis, and treatment have made it possible to detect and, in some cases, treat, many birth defects before birth. Maternal-fetal medicine specialists provide expert consultation for families who have learned of a birth defect, working with pediatric surgeons to determine the best plan of care for mother and fetus.
Maternal-fetal medicine is a rapidly evolving field in medicine, especially with respect to the fetus. Research is being carried out in the field of fetal gene and stem cell therapy in hope to provide early treatment for genetic disorders, open fetal surgery for the correction of birth defects like congenital heart disease, and the prevention of preeclampsia. Maternal-fetal medicine specialists provide advanced care and support to both the mother and the fetus.
