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High-Risk Pregnancy Services
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JMMC offers premier services for high-risk pregnant patients. Perinatology, or maternal fetal medicine, offers care to women who have, or predict they may have, a pregnancy considered high-risk.
The John Muir Department of Maternal/Fetal Medicine provides 24-hour coverage of high-risk obstetrical patients for consultation and referral from community obstetricians. Services include:
- A 24-hour, in-house obstetrician program provides services for emergencies and case management.
- Labor & delivery rooms staffed with nurses trained to give high-risk perinatal care, as well as care for patients who have had surgical deliveries or tubal ligations.
- Outpatient antenatal testing is also performed in the Birth Center. Three days after discharge, the mother and baby receive a visit from a Birth Center nurse for a physical, social and educational assessment.
The majority of women seen by a maternal fetal medicine physician are referred by their care provider or infertility specialist. They may be referred because they have a medical condition that puts them at high risk for complications, such as a history of premature birth or pregnancy loss. Or, they may be seen for help with conditions such as gestational diabetes, a heart condition or preeclampsia. Patients may also self-refer if they know they have a history that might put them at risk. Pregnancy-related problems, such as expecting multiple babies, premature labor, or a concern about the developing fetus may indicate a need to see a maternal fetal medicine specialist.
Other high-risk perinatal services include: consultation for genetic and maternal indications, complete ultrasound services, first and second trimester screening for Aneuploidy, in-patient and outpatient consultations for medical diseases during pregnancy and preconception counseling.
Maternal Fetal Medicine physicians work with a multidisciplinary team to ensure continuity throughout the pregnancy, birth and after care. A care plan is developed with the mother's care provider to monitor the mother and baby's progress. If needed, there is also collaboration with neonatal specialists and pediatric specialists to plan for after the birth. The goal while seeing a maternal fetal medicine physician is to have a safe and healthy pregnancy for mothers and babies who need specialized care.
Becoming pregnant can be a challenge for many women. The JMMC has specialty physicians, maternal fetal medicine, neonatology and support services for women who are experiencing complications or find that they are high risk.