Maternal/Fetal specialist

[chriru79]

My 1st appointment w/ the maternal/fetal specialist is coming up. Iam only seeing this doctor due to "advanced maternal age", no problems. Wondering what to expect at this appointment. Seeing my OB the same day, so looking forward to him explaining more to me but just thought I'd get some other mom's experiences. Thanks!

[chriru79]

Thanks ladies!

[no3ontheway]

I have seen one with each of my pregnancies because I am a diabetic.  My last pregnancy I was 36 and now 38 with our last little one. I really like seeing one because the actual doctor does the ultrasound so they can tell you right then what they see....and you get a ton of pics

[JulieAnna15]

I also see the specialist every other week bcs of my age and I tell you, it gives me a lot of piece of mind...
In my fist appointment we discussed genetic tests, possible cerclage in case of short or incompetent cervix, frequency of visits, what to expect from each of them, who wud I see if she were off on a given wweek, etc.
Nothing to worry about and rather a blessing to be seen by someone qualified in case you need additional care as your pregnancy goes on.
All the best and enjoy your pregnancy!

[johannalee78]

During my first visit we discussed what the procedures were for testing for down syndrome and 2 other chromosomal issues. Then I had to give blood. Our results were negative but if there had been a chance of an issue then they would tell you two options where they can test further. All in all I was glad I was able to get the testing. I don't like being called advanced maternal age lol but to me those tests are a perk to being in the category. Hope it goes well!

[Kathy2015]

My next appt is at the end of the month. Mfm check up. But as of next week I get 2 non stress tests per week until I deliver. And probably another mom check up end of Feb.  Yep, right through til the end.

[sjkduke03]

I saw mine at 12 weeks. It was quick for me. They measured Nuchal (?) Fold and the nasal bone. Also, they took blood(prick in the finger) to test more. The mfm didn't say much. She simply said the ultrasound looks normal. And the blood results came back in ten days. I'm doing another screen for spinal bifida(?) soon at 20 weeks. I think the ultrasound technician said that all of my imaging will be done with them rather than at a lab. And we'll be seeing the mfm throughout our pregnancy, right?

[mommyof3goingon4]

Thank you for explaining! I hope your appointment goes well, and all the best for you and your baby!

[chriru79]

It is standard protocol in the area I live (Georgia) to send all advanced maternal age moms to see a maternal/fetal specialist. As you probably already know, 35 years & older puts you at AMA which brings along increased risks. The specialist is just kind of a back up way to ensure no problems. I would ask your doc about it. May just be a preference of the doc, not really sure.

[mommyof3goingon4]

I'm sorry for asking a q on your q, but I have never heard of this before? I don't know what that is, my dr has not said anything to me about this. I am 35 yrs old, is this something I should expect?

[Kathy2015]

Me too. Its going to be a really long ultrasound. We were there for 2 hours because they want to get all the best pictures they can.