Pregnancy is a joyous time for every parent. However, it can also raise questions about the best course of care. Two essential healthcare providers for women’s health during pregnancy are maternal-foetal medicine (MFM) specialists and obstetrician-gynaecologists (OB-GYNs). While their roles may seem similar, understanding their distinctions can ensure you receive the most appropriate care for your needs.
What is a Maternal-Foetal Medicine Specialist?
Maternal-foetal medicine is a subspecialty within obstetrics and gynaecology. MFM specialities, also known as perinatologists, are OB-GYNs who have completed an additional two to three years of fellowship training to handle complex and high-risk pregnancies. This training equips them with the expertise to diagnose and treat complications affecting the mother and the developing baby.
What Does a Maternal-Foetal Medicine Specialist Do?
MFM specialists provide thorough care from before conception, during pregnancy, and after delivery. Their role includes:
- Preconception Care:
For women planning to conceive, particularly those with chronic health conditions or high-risk pregnancies, MFM specialists offer consultations to create a roadmap for a healthy pregnancy. This includes genetic counselling and carrier testing for sickle cell disease or Tay-Sachs disease. Their expertise in medicine genetics helps identify and manage potential hereditary issues early.
- Pregnancy Management:
During pregnancy, MFM specialists monitor and treat complications. They oversee various diagnostic tests such as foetal echocardiograms, ultrasounds, biophysical profiles, chorionic villous sampling (CVS), and amniocentesis. They work alongside obstetricians, midwives, and family physicians to ensure comprehensive care.
- Labour and Delivery:
MFM specialists provide advice and support during labour and delivery, especially if complications arise. They may be directly involved in the delivery and offer postpartum care if needed.
What is an OB-GYN?
An OB-GYN physician specialises in obstetrics and gynaecology, focusing on women’s reproductive health from puberty through menopause and beyond. The field combines two disciplines:
- Obstetrics (OB) involves care during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum.
- Gynaecology (GYN) focuses on the female reproductive system, diagnosing and treating related conditions.
What Does an OB-GYN Do?
The daily responsibilities of an OB-GYN can vary widely depending on their practice focus. Their role includes:
- Routine Care: Conducting annual exams, infection testing, and treatments.
- Obstetric Care: Providing prenatal check-ups and managing labour and delivery.
- Surgical Procedures: Performing surgeries such as Cesarean sections and pelvic laparoscopies.
OB-GYNs often split their time between office consultations and hospital duties, balancing planned appointments with unexpected labour and delivery calls.
How Does an MFM Specialist Differ From an OB-GYN?
While all MFM specialists are OB-GYNs, not all OB-GYNs are MFM specialists. MFM specialists receive an additional two to three years of training to handle high-risk pregnancies, focusing on complex issues affecting both mother and baby.
Most women visit their regular OB-GYN for routine pregnancy care, with occasional visits to an MFM specialist for high-risk conditions. Depending on their health and their healthcare provider’s practices, some women may receive all their care from an MFM specialist.
The key difference is that MFM specialists have specialised training in high-risk pregnancies, while OB-GYNs provide a broad range of general and reproductive health services. This collaborative approach ensures women get comprehensive care tailored to their needs throughout pregnancy and beyond.
Take Away
Understanding the expertise of MFM specialists and OB-GYNs allows you to navigate your pregnancy journey confidently. By working with the right doctor at the right time, you can ensure a healthy and joyful pregnancy experience.