Maternal fetal medicine is a branch of medicine that focuses on high-risk pregnancies and fetal complications. Maternal fetal medicine doctors are highly trained specialists with experience in obstetrics and gynecology, who provide care for both mother and fetus during pregnancy. They have specific expertise in identifying and treating medical conditions that can complicate pregnancy and/or adversely affect the health of the fetus.
In this article, we will discuss the role of maternal fetal medicine doctors in pregnancy, what to expect during prenatal care, and various treatment options available for couples struggling with infertility.
What Does a Maternal Fetal Medicine Doctor Do?
Maternal fetal medicine doctors are trained to handle intricate and complex pregnancies, including those with high-risk factors or fetal complications. These doctors work in close coordination with obstetricians/gynecologists, pediatricians, and neonatologists, to help ensure the best possible outcomes for the mother and baby.
During prenatal care, your maternal fetal medicine doctor will closely monitor and track your pregnancy, seeking irregularities that may point toward potential problems. This may include routine screening tests such as blood tests and ultrasound scans to check for health issues or fetal abnormalities. If your doctor detects any abnormalities, they will recommend additional testing.
Some conditions that maternal fetal medicine doctors may help manage during pregnancy include:
– Gestational diabetes
– Preeclampsia
– Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR)
– Placenta previa
– Preterm labor
What To Expect During Prenatal Care with a Maternal Fetal Medicine Doctor
If you’re wondering what to expect when you visit a maternal fetal medicine doctor during pregnancy, the answer is: a lot of care and support!
Your doctor will schedule routine check-ups, which may include blood pressure checks, fetal heart rate monitoring, and weight measurements, among other tests. Depending on your situation, you may need more frequent check-ups to ensure that your pregnancy is progressing smoothly.
During prenatal visits, your doctor will also provide guidance on things to do (and not do) during pregnancy to keep you and your baby healthy. This may include:
Do’s:
– Eat a healthy and balanced diet.
– Get adequate rest.
– Exercise moderately, with your doctor’s okay.
– Attend your prenatal appointments promptly.
– Connect with a support group or seek counseling if necessary.
Don’ts:
– Smoke or use tobacco.
– Drink excessive amounts of alcohol.
– Take any medication without first consulting your physician.
– Engage in risky behaviors such as skydiving or scuba diving.
Maternal fetal medicine doctors can also assist with fertility treatments such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and surrogacy.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
IVF is a fertility treatment method that involves fertilizing eggs with sperm in a laboratory dish and transferring the embryo to the uterus. Maternal fetal medicine doctors monitor women who undergo IVF closely to avoid any complications that may arise, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
IUI is a fertility treatment method where sperm is placed directly into the uterus during ovulation. Maternal fetal medicine doctors monitor women who undergo IUI carefully, ensuring that ovulation cycles are on track and that the treatment is successful.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
ICSI is a fertility treatment method that involves injecting sperm directly into the egg. This method is suitable for couples experiencing infertility due to low sperm count or poor sperm motility. Maternal fetal medicine doctors monitor women who undergo ICSI closely, ensuring that the fertilized egg develops correctly and that the pregnancy progresses smoothly.
Surrogacy
Surrogacy is a fertility treatment option for couples who cannot carry a pregnancy for various reasons. Maternal fetal medicine doctors closely monitor the health of surrogates during pregnancy, ensuring that the pregnancy progresses according to protocol.
Foods To Eat During Pregnancy
A balanced and healthy diet is essential during pregnancy. Foods that are rich in essential vitamins and minerals are especially important for fetal growth and development. Some foods that pregnant women should eat include:
– Dark leafy greens like spinach and kale
– Lean proteins like chicken, lean beef, and fish
– Fruits like berries and citrus
– Nuts and seeds
– Whole grains like quinoa and brown rice.
In conclusion, maternal fetal medicine doctors are essential in ensuring that both the mother and baby are healthy during pregnancy. Their expertise comes into play, especially when the pregnancy is high-risk. If you’re struggling with infertility, consultations with these specialists are also invaluable. Above all, a healthy lifestyle, adequate rest, and engaging in moderate exercise should also top your list of priorities to ensure a healthy pregnancy.