High-Risk Pregnancy and Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Labor and Delivery
Menu

Every pregnancy is unique. In some cases, specialized care is needed to help keep both mother and baby healthy. Maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialists provide advanced care for high-risk pregnancies, offering expert monitoring, testing and treatment options in collaboration with obstetricians.

What Is a High-Risk Pregnancy?

A pregnancy may be considered high risk if:

  • Certain medical conditions are present, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
  • Complications develop during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes.
  • There is a history of preterm birth or previous pregnancy complications.
  • Multiple babies are expected.
  • Concerns arise about the baby’s growth or development.
  • The mother is of advanced maternal age.

When a pregnancy is high-risk, specialized care focuses on monitoring both mother and baby, managing complications and planning for a safe delivery.

What are advanced testing and monitoring options offered at Clinch Valley Medical Center?

Accurate diagnosis and ongoing monitoring are essential for high-risk pregnancies. Services include:

  • Genetic testing and counseling: Screening and diagnostic testing to identify potential genetic conditions early
  • Screening and targeted OB ultrasounds: Growth and development monitoring
  • Fetal echocardiogram: Detailed imaging of the baby’s heart
  • Diagnostics and imaging: Specialized tests to assess maternal and fetal health

Managing Complications

Maternal-fetal medicine specialists provide care for conditions that can impact pregnancy, including:

  • Preeclampsia and high blood pressure treatment and monitoring
  • Gestational diabetes education and blood sugar management
  • Maternal mental health screenings and support
  • Substance use in pregnancy counseling and care coordination

Fetal Therapies

When concerns about birth defects or growth issues arise, treatment can often begin before birth. Advanced fetal therapy options may include:

  • Intrauterine blood transfusions for conditions like Rh disease
  • Treatment for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS)
  • Specialized monitoring and surgical interventions, as needed

Support for Multiple Pregnancies

Carrying twins, triplets or more requires extra attention. High-risk pregnancy care includes frequent monitoring, nutrition counseling and delivery planning tailored to multiple gestations.

Additional Services

  • Licensed addiction counseling
  • Diabetes education
  • Post-delivery follow-up care

Take the Next Step

Find a maternal-fetal medicine specialist by visiting the Find a Provider tool or by calling 800.424.DOCS (3627).