Maternal-Fetal Medicine
About maternal-fetal medicine at Main Line Health
While high-risk pregnancies or complications can feel overwhelming, your dedicated team at Main Line Health will be there for you throughout your pregnancy journey to provide expert care and support. That's why we offer 24/7 availability so you can speak with your doctors whenever you need.
Our perinatologists (high-risk pregnancy doctors) are passionate about offering comprehensive care that understands the unique challenges that come with needing additional treatment. You may be referred to the maternal-fetal medicine department if you experience issues such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, a pregnancy when your age is 35 years or older or if you're at risk of premature labor or are pregnant with multiples (twins, triplets, etc.).
We know that experiencing the need for additional medical attention during your pregnancy can come with varied emotions, but you're not alone. You'll receive compassionate treatment with precise diagnoses, follow-up testing and guidance as you prepare to bring your baby into the world.
Available screenings for maternal-fetal medicine
Amniocentesis
This test obtains amniotic fluid for genetic evaluation. It can also be used to evaluate infection in certain cases.
Non-Stress Test (NST)
NST helps assess your baby’s health in-utero. This is used when specific maternal or fetal conditions exist. It can also give information on placental health.
Biophysical profile (BPP)
BPP is another test that be used in certain situations to assess fetal health. It can be used with and without NST.
Chorionic villus sampling
This test, performed early in pregnancy, takes a sample of tissue from the placenta to evaluate if there might be possible genetic or chromosomal abnormalities.
First trimester evaluation
In the first trimester, we can offer viability, dating, anatomy and genetic marker assessment. We can also offer non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) looking at cell-free fetal DNA in your bloodstream to assess risk of Down’s syndrome, Trisomy 18 or 13 and sex chromosomes. We also offer sequential screen where hormone levels are evaluated to determine if you’re at an increased risk of having a baby with a condition such as Down’s syndrome or Edwards’ syndrome.
Genetic testing and counseling
When it comes to your genetic testing options, you don’t have to go through the process alone. A genetic counselor can consult you and help you understand your genetic risk assessments.
Maternal fetal medicine consultation
Perinatologists can discuss your history to balance maternal and fetal risks to achieve a healthy outcome for moms and babies. Maternal fetal medicine specialists can also discuss fetal conditions and coordinate fetal surveillance and pediatric subspecialty care.
Second and third trimester ultrasound
Using the latest technology, including 3D and 4D ultrasound, your care team can screen for birth defects, genetic markers and follow fetal growth. If specific issues exist, your care team can perform middle cerebral artery and umbilical artery doppler evaluation.