What is the Need for Fetal Medicine?

 

Perinatology, commonly referred to as maternal-fetal medicine (MFM), is a field of medicine that focuses on treating health issues related to the mother and to-be-born baby before, during, and soon after pregnancy. Parents' primary responsibility is to look after their children. But occasionally, even before the baby is born, the parents must provide extra attention to the child.

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It may be important to assess the health of the unborn child and administer the appropriate treatment to ensure a healthy life in future. It takes a lot of expertise, experience, and in-depth understanding of fetal medicine treatment to fulfil this responsibility. The health of the foetus is assessed using a variety of diagnostic procedures, following which fetal care specialists recommend the most appropriate course of action to address those problems.

Who are Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists?

Obstetricians that specialise in maternal-fetal medicine are known as subspecialists. They typically complete a three-year fellowship after completing a four-year residency in obstetrics and gynaecology. They might do prenatal examinations, provide treatments, and even conduct surgeries.

In lower-risk pregnancies, they serve as a consultant, while in particularly high-risk pregnancies, they serve as the principal obstetrician. They might collaborate closely with paediatricians or neonatologists after delivery too. Perinatologists help mothers with pre-existing medical issues and pregnancy-related problems.

The best gynecologist in Bangalore recommends a maternal-fetal specialist for expectant mothers with chronic problems such high blood pressure, drug usage during or before pregnancy, or a recognised medical issue. Additionally, a maternal-fetal specialist may be recommended to help women who are having trouble getting pregnant. Some issues can also occur during pregnancy. A maternal-fetal specialist may consult with the patient on an as-needed basis or take over as the patient's main obstetrician for the duration of the pregnancy, depending on the seriousness of the issue. Maternal-fetal specialists may follow up with a patient after delivery and keep track of any potential medical issues.

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Why We Need These Specialists

Fetal medicine specialists are experts in high-risk pregnancies, so they can handle any circumstance that poses a risk to the mother's health or the life of the foetus. An expert in fetal medicine will monitor and manage a few of the following conditions:

·       Existing ailments like diabetes

·       High blood pressure

·       Obesity

·       HIV

·       Complications from earlier pregnancies, such as pre-eclampsia and premature deliveries

·       Issues with the foetus, such as birth abnormalities and multiple gestations.

History of MFM

The 1960s saw the emergence of maternal-fetal medicine as a distinct field of study. Previously, obstetricians could only rely on heart rate monitoring and maternal accounts of baby activity. However, advances in science and technology have made it possible for doctors to diagnose and treat fetal problems in utero.

When attempting to get pregnant or if you are already pregnant and are aware that you have a medical condition, you should talk to your doctor about it so they can direct you to the right specialist. If your doctor thinks it's important while you're pregnant, they'll also recommend that you see a fetal medicine specialist. The good news is that fetal medicine and treatment can enhance the chances of the survival and health of your baby.

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