Obs & Gynaec Fetal Medicine

Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Our specialists in maternal–fetal medicine are experienced in handling health concerns of the mother and fetus before and immediately after birth. Our Specialists are proficient in handling high risk pregnancy i.e. expectant mothers suffering from chronic conditions or pregnancy-related complications including high risk pregnancies.

High-Risk Pregnancy: All You Need to Know

With clinical and technological expertise, the doctors at Apollo Hospitals frequently handle high risk pregnancies. A pregnancy is considered high-risk, if it has one or more of the following risk factors:

• Maternal age is under 18 or above 35.
• Multiple pregnancy.
• Obesity.
• Any birth defect or chronic illness such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, depression etc.
• Previous miscarriage, still birth or pre-term labor or preeclampsia etc.
• Any pregnancy complication like an abnormal placenta position, shortened cervix etc.
• Lifestyle habits like smoking, consuming alcohol etc.

Signs or Symptoms that require immediate medical attention

• Watery vaginal discharge or vaginal bleeding.
• Severe headaches.
• Cramping or pain in the lower abdomen.
• Frequent contractions — a tightening sensation in the abdomen.
• Decreased fetal movement.
• Pain or burning sensation during urination.
• Change in vision, including blurred vision.
• Fever or Chills.

High Risk Pregnancy diagnostic procedures may include:

• Blood Tests, Ultrasound and Urinalysis.
• Amniocentesis: It is a procedure in which a sample of the amniotic fluid is taken to test for chromosomal abnormalities and fetal infections.
• Chorionic Villous Sampling (CVS): In CVS, a sample tissue of placenta is taken to test for chromosomal abnormalities and any other genetic problems.
• Fetal Echocardiography: Fetal echocardiography is a detailed scan performed to examine the structure and functioning of baby’s heart.
• Fetal Fibronectin Test: The test is performed to rule out preterm delivery in which sample of cervical or vaginal fluid is taken by using a swab.
• Genetic Testing or Counselling

A high-risk pregnancy means that you will be required to consult an expert and need more monitoring. Our Specialists are highly trained and equipped to handle high-risk pregnancies. They have successfully treated numerous rare pregnancy related complications.