Maternal-Fetal

Maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) refers to a subspecialty of obstetrics that focuses on the medical care of both the mother and fetus throughout pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum. This specialty is designed to ensure the optimal health and outcome of both the mother and baby. Maternal-fetal medicine specialists are highly trained obstetricians who provide specialized care for pregnant women who have complications or are at higher risk for conditions during pregnancy. This includes women who have a history of preterm deliveries, complex or multiple pregnancies, chronic conditions such as heart disease or diabetes, or women carrying fetuses with genetic or congenital abnormalities. Maternal-fetal medicine specialists aim to provide comprehensive care to women and their fetuses through regular monitoring, genetic testing, and counseling on the risks and benefits of various treatment options. They assess the health of the mother and baby through regular physical exams, ultrasounds, laboratory tests, and other diagnostic procedures. Throughout pregnancy, MFM specialists work with the mother to ensure that she is following a healthy diet and lifestyle, and that any medical conditions she has are managed appropriately. They also provide education and support to help the mother make informed decisions about her pregnancy and delivery.