Care for Complicated Pregnancies
Our highly educated specialists reduce the risk for high-risk pregnancies
No pregnant woman wants to learn that she has a high-risk pregnancy. You may feel unsettled and scared, but be assured you can still can have a healthy baby. You can feel comfortable knowing that Lehigh Valley Health Network is a national leader in caring for women whose conditions make their pregnancies high-risk.
Our maternal-fetal medicine specialists (physicians who specialize in complicated pregnancies) are available to you throughout your pregnancy – 24 hours a day, 7-days a week. We are among few hospitals in the country to offer this service and are a national model for other hospitals.
What is a “high-risk” pregnancy? If your pregnancy is “high-risk” it means you have a higher risk for complications. Your age, health, genetics and past pregnancy outcomes all affect your risk for complications. Medical conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure also can complicate pregnancy and increase your chances of having a complicated pregnancy. Your unique genetics may increase your risk for miscarriage or having a premature baby. Our maternal-fetal medicine team is trained to care for you and create a plan for a healthy mom and baby.
How can I learn my genetic risk for having a complicated pregnancy? If a genetic condition such as cystic fibrosis runs in your family, you have a history of miscarriage or other problem pregnancies, or you have a health condition that may complicate pregnancy, we can help you learn your options. Our maternal-fetal medicine specialists will recommend tests that can help you determine your risk—before conception—for having a baby with a birth defect or genetic abnormality, or for experiencing a problem pregnancy. If you have diabetes, heart disease or another medical problem, they also can help you to better manage your health so you stay healthy during pregnancy.
Who will care for me during pregnancy? A board-certified maternal-fetal medicine specialist will care for you throughout your pregnancy and even deliver your child if necessary. Also known as perinatologists, our maternal-fetal medicine specialists are obstetricians who have completed extra education in high-risk childbirth. Our highly skilled specialists team up with other physicians and caregivers to create a plan for your pregnancy and delivery. We understand your physical and emotional needs because we treat women just like you every day. We not only lend our experience and expertise to diagnose and treat your problem, but also our support and advice to help ease your worry.
How can you help me and my baby during pregnancy? We can assist you at any stage of pregnancy - even before conception and at delivery - to ensure you and your baby remain healthy. We offer a level of testing, care and expertise during pregnancy not available at other regional hospitals; in fact, hospitals throughout the region refer mothers to us for care. Our staff will answer your questions, explain your options, and give you the peace of mind you need to relax and enjoy this special time.
How do I make an appointment with a maternal-fetal specialist? Talk with your obstetrician or call 610-402-CARE for more information.
Meet Our Specialists
Our maternal-fetal medicine specialists provide expert guidance if you have a
high-risk pregnancy.
This page last updated 12/15/08 02:45 AM
