Medically reviewed by Angela Silber, MD
Most pregnancies go smoothly. But some are more complex: a health condition, a concern on an ultrasound, a history of pregnancy loss, or a diagnosis that affects the baby. In those cases, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, or an MFM, may become part of your care team.
Your obstetrician (OB) may recommend a referral. You may also wonder if you should see one because of your health history. Here’s how to find the right specialist.
What a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Doctor Does
Maternal-fetal medicine is a specialized area of OB care. MFM specialists complete standard OB/GYN training. Then they complete three more years focused on high-risk pregnancies. They treat conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, clotting disorders, multiple pregnancies, and fetal conditions diagnosed before birth.
MFM specialists often work with a patient’s regular OB rather than replacing them. In most cases, your regular OB continues routine care while the MFM specialist handles the more complex parts.
When a Referral Makes Sense
Some OBs refer patients to maternal-fetal medicine before they get pregnant. This is common if they have a condition that could affect pregnancy. Others are referred during pregnancy if a new concern comes up. Common reasons include:
- A chronic health condition like diabetes, lupus, kidney disease, a heart condition, or a clotting disorder
- A history of preterm birth, pregnancy loss, preeclampsia (a pregnancy condition that causes high blood pressure), or stillbirth
- Carrying twins, triplets or more
- A concern seen on an ultrasound or screening test
- A family or personal history of genetic conditions
- Pregnancy at age 35 or older with other risk factors
- Exposure to medications or infections that may affect the baby
A referral doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong. Often, it’s a precaution that gives patients extra monitoring and peace of mind.
How to Find the Right Specialist
Start by talking with your OB or midwife. They can recommend trusted specialists and help set up the referral. Here are a few things to look for.
Look for board certification in maternal-fetal medicine through the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. This shows the doctor has advanced training.
Consider the hospital affiliations. MFM care often involves a whole team. This team may include neonatal intensive care staff, pediatric subspecialists, genetic counselors and your labor and delivery care team. Choose a specialist who works at a hospital with a Level III or Level IV neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). These units provide extra support for mothers and babies.
Ask about experience with your specific situation. An MFM who frequently treats patients with your specific condition will be better prepared to care for you.
Pay attention to communication. A good specialist explains complex information clearly. They answer questions without rushing. They also work closely with your OB. Pregnancy can feel overwhelming. A higher-risk pregnancy can bring more worry. The right specialist makes you feel informed and supported.
Care for the Pregnancies That Need It Most
A high-risk designation can sound frightening. In practice, it means you have access to a team trained to watch closely, spot problems early, and manage your care. Most patients who see a MFM specialist go on to have healthy babies.
The MFM specialists at WMCHealth care for people with complex pregnancies. These specialists work with a full team of pediatric subspecialists and are part of one of the region’s most advanced NICUs. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit our website.