If You Need Special Care During Pregnancy

Our highly-trained specialists reduce the risk of “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 have a healthy baby. You can feel comfortable knowing that Lehigh Valley Hospital 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 such service and are a national model for other hospitals.

Who will care for me? 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 training 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 their 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.

What if my baby requires special care after delivery? If your baby requires special care after delivery, our board-certified newborn specialists (neonatologists) will be at your bedside within seconds. Our Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) - the highest level in the region - is adjacent to our labor and delivery suite and provides expert care. We also offer in-house coverage by our neonatologists and nurse practitioners 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. Our NICU is recognized as a national leader in neonatal care quality.

How do I make an appointment with a maternal fetal specialist? Talk with your obstetrician or call 610-402-CARE for more information.

What is a “high-risk” pregnancy? If your pregnancy is “high-risk” it means you have a higher risk of complications. Your age, health, genetics and past pregnancy outcomes all affect your risk of complications. Medical conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure can also complicate pregnancy and increase your chances of having a baby with a problem. Your unique genetics may increase your risk of 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.

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