For expectant mothers, the prospect of having a baby is both a joyous and exciting one, and most pregnancies proceed smoothly. But for a number of reasons, some women need to be watched more closely during pregnancy. In this case, consultation with a Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist may be suggested.

Maternal-Fetal Medicine physicians, also called perinatologists, are obstetricians who have completed additional 2-3 years of formal education as well clinical experience. Maternal-Fetal Medicine have advanced knowledge of obstetrical, medical, genetic and surgical complications of pregnancy, and their effect on both mother and fetus. They specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care of expectant mothers and their unborn babies, who may be at high risk for special health problems. Such problems include:
• Heart Disease and Hypertension
• Abnormal Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP), Advanced Maternal Age (35 years old, or older)
• Preeclampsia
• Twins, triplets or more
• Recurrent preterm labor and delivery; premature rupture of membranes
• Diabetes or other endocrine disorders
• Recurrent pregnancy losses
• Fetal growth abnormalities
• Kidney, gastrointestinal disorders and infectious diseases.

Services provided by Maternal-Fetal Medicine physicians include maternal and fetal medical care, monitoring, ultrasound examinations, genetic counseling, diabetes education, state-of-the-art diagnostic tests, tests of fetal well being, and more (Amniocentesis, targeted detailed ultrasound including 3D and 4D, Biophysical Profile of the fetus, fetal and maternal Doppler blood flow).

Women are generally referred to a Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist by their obstetrician or by an infertility specialist because he or she sees a potential for a pregnancy-related health concern or because a problem develops during the course of the pregnancy. Some women choose to see a Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist on their own as a precautionary measure or to take advantage of the availability of their skills.

In general, it is uncommon for a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist to deliver you baby. He or she will usually consult a regular obstetrician.
DR BINDER WILL DELIVER YOUR BABY AND STAY WITH YOU IN THE HOSPITAL FROM THE MOMENT YOU ENTER THE LABOR ROOM, TO THE TIME YOUR BABY IS BORN: