perinatalist

A perinatalist is a medical professional who specializes in the care of a woman and her fetus during the perinatal period. This period encompasses pregnancy, labor, delivery, and the postpartum phase, typically extending up to one year after birth. Perinatalists often work within maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) departments or high-risk obstetrics units.

These specialists are physicians, typically obstetricians, who have undergone additional fellowship training in MFM. Their expertise lies in managing complex pregnancies, including those with pre-existing maternal conditions, fetal anomalies, or complications that arise during gestation. They work closely with expectant parents to monitor fetal development, diagnose and treat conditions affecting the mother or baby, and plan for the safest possible delivery.

The scope of a perinatalist's practice includes a wide range of services. They perform detailed ultrasounds, genetic screening and counseling, and manage conditions such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, placental problems, and preterm labor. They also provide care for women who have experienced previous pregnancy losses or have a history of complicated deliveries. Perinatalists play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of both mother and child throughout this critical stage of life.