Knowra Maternal–fetal medicine Maternal–fetal medicine Maternal–fetal medicine is an obstetric subspecialty that manages pregnancies complicated by serious maternal conditions, fetal disorders, or elevated risks to either.
Preeclampsia : A pregnancy disorder marked by new-onset hypertension, often with signs of organ damage after 20 weeks of gestation. Maternal–fetal specialists assess its severity and balance maternal treatment against fetal maturity.
Maternal hemodynamics in pregnancy : The cardiovascular changes in pregnancy, including increased blood volume and cardiac output and reduced systemic vascular resistance. These changes affect how pre-existing heart disease is evaluated and managed.
High-risk pregnancy : A pregnancy with increased likelihood of adverse outcomes for the pregnant person, fetus, or newborn. Maternal–fetal medicine specializes in evaluating and managing this broad category.
Maternal–fetal medicine specialist : An obstetrician with advanced training in managing pregnancies complicated by maternal or fetal conditions. This physician leads specialist assessment, counseling, and management of complex pregnancies.
Fetal therapy : Medical or surgical treatment delivered to a fetus before birth to address a fetal condition. Its expanding capabilities raise questions about which conditions justify prenatal intervention.
Fetal growth restriction : A condition in which a fetus is smaller than expected because it has not reached its growth potential. Serial growth scans and fetal surveillance help guide timing of delivery.
Doppler ultrasonography in obstetrics : Ultrasound measurement of blood-flow direction and velocity in maternal and fetal vessels. Umbilical and cerebral blood-flow patterns can inform fetal surveillance and delivery timing.
Prenatal diagnosis : The identification of fetal conditions before birth through screening, imaging, or diagnostic testing. Its findings shape counseling, pregnancy management, and preparation for birth.
Obstetric anesthesiology : The anesthesiology subspecialty focused on anesthesia and pain management during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Its expertise matters when maternal illness or complex delivery raises anesthetic risks.
Maternal–fetal surgery : Surgery performed during pregnancy on the fetus, placenta, or membranes to treat selected conditions. Procedures can benefit the fetus while exposing the pregnant person to substantial risk.
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