1. Pre-existing Maternal Medical Conditions
If the mother has chronic health issues, a perinatologist specialist can help monitor and manage these conditions during pregnancy to minimize risks. Examples include:
- Diabetes (Type 1, Type 2, or gestational)
- Hypertension or preeclampsia
- Thyroid disorders
- Kidney disease
- Heart disease
2. Pregnancy Complications
Certain complications that arise during pregnancy may necessitate the involvement of a perinatologist, such as:
- Preterm labor or threatened preterm delivery
- Placenta previa (when the placenta covers the cervix)
- Placental abruption (premature separation of the placenta)
- Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) (the baby is not growing as expected)
3. Fetal Health Concerns
If there are concerns about the baby’s health or development, a perinatologist can conduct detailed evaluations and recommend appropriate care. Common scenarios include:
- Congenital abnormalities detected on ultrasound
- Genetic disorders or a family history of inherited conditions
- Suspected chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome
- Fetal anemia or Rh incompatibility
4. Advanced Maternal Age
Pregnant individuals aged 35 or older may be referred to a Female Obgyn due to an increased risk of complications such as chromosomal abnormalities, gestational diabetes, or preeclampsia.
5. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
Pregnancies conceived through fertility treatments, such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF), may require peganancy specialized care, particularly if there are complications or if the pregnancy involves multiple babies.
6. History of High-Risk Pregnancies
If a woman has experienced complications in previous specialist pregnancies, such as preterm delivery, preeclampsia, or stillbirth, a perinatologist can provide close monitoring and preventive care to reduce risks in subsequent pregnancies.
7. Monitoring and Advanced Diagnostic Testing
Perinatologists offer advanced diagnostic and monitoring tools, including:
- Detailed ultrasounds: To assess fetal growth, anatomy, and placental function.
- Noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT): To screen for genetic abnormalities.
- Amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS): For definitive genetic testing.
8. Preconception Counseling for High-Risk Patients
Women with existing medical conditions or a history of pregnancy complications may benefit from consulting a perinatologist even before becoming pregnant. This helps optimize their health and create a personalized care plan for a safer pregnancy.