Our team of physicians are experts in Obstetrics and Gynecology as well as Maternal-Fetal Medicine. This equips us to deliver exceptional care throughout high-risk pregnancies. Our proficiency extends to managing a diverse range of pregnancy complications arising from pre-existing maternal medical conditions or obstetrical concerns. Collaborating closely with your obstetrician, we ensure a seamless pregnancy and successful birth. Every patient’s distinctive requirements shape our healthcare approach. At Rela Hospital, we are dedicated to delivering comprehensive services to expectant mothers, encompassing genetic counselling, diagnostic assessments, and effective therapies. Our ultimate aim is to optimise the health prospects for both mother and baby.
Which conditions are treated through fetal medicine specialists?
Fetal medicine specialists are experts in managing high-risk pregnancies, addressing situations that endanger the well-being of the mother or the fetus. They handle various conditions, including:
Pre-existing medical issues like HIV, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes.
Previous pregnancy complications like pre-eclampsia and pre-term births.
Fetal anomalies and birth defects.
Multiple gestations such as twins, triplets, or other multiples.
Our Gynaecologist Team
Institute Obstetrics and Gynaecology includes uniquely qualified doctors, specialized in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, who are dedicated to providing women with their best choice for comprehensive, expert, and personal women’s health care. We are proud of having the best Obstetrics and Gynaecology Doctors in Chennai. In fact, some of the best gynaecologists and top gynaecologists are in Rela Hospital in Chennai
Dr. P. Usha
MBBS, MD (OG), D.LAP, FMAS, Post-doctoral fellow in Gynae Oncology
MBBS, DGO, DNB (OG), Dip. ALS (Germany), FICOG, AMRCOG (UK)
Reproductive Medicine, Women's Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Director and Clinical Lead of Institute of Reproductive Medicine Fertility Specialist/laparoscopic Surgeon/Robotic Surgeon/Sonologist Visiting Consultant - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Fetal medicine, also known as maternal-fetal medicine, is a specialised branch of medicine focused on diagnosing, managing, and treating conditions and complications that can arise during pregnancy and affect the health of both the fetus and the mother. It is primarily aimed at optimising the outcomes of high-risk pregnancies by closely monitoring the development of the fetus and addressing any potential issues that may arise. Fetal medicine specialists utilise advanced imaging techniques, diagnostic tests, and medical interventions to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the unborn baby.
Fetal medicine is necessary during pregnancy when there are factors that increase the risk of complications for either the mother or the fetus. These complications can range from structural abnormalities in the fetus to medical conditions in the mother that may impact the pregnancy. Fetal medicine specialists provide specialised care, monitoring, and interventions to mitigate these risks and enhance the chances of a healthy pregnancy and successful delivery.
Various conditions may require fetal medicine intervention, including but not limited to congenital anomalies (heart defects, neural tube defects), chromosomal abnormalities (Down syndrome), multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets), intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), maternal medical conditions (diabetes, hypertension), fetal infections, and more. Fetal medicine specialists are equipped to diagnose and manage these conditions to ensure the best possible outcomes.
A high-risk pregnancy refers to a pregnancy in which there is an increased likelihood of complications for the mother, the fetus, or both. These complications may arise due to pre-existing maternal health conditions, fetal anomalies, multiple pregnancies, advanced maternal age, or a history of pregnancy-related complications. High-risk pregnancies require closer monitoring, specialised care, and sometimes medical interventions to minimise potential risks.
Five common factors that can contribute to a high-risk pregnancy include:
Maternal Age: Women under 18 or over 35 years of age are at an increased risk of certain complications.
Medical Conditions: Pre-existing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders can impact pregnancy.
Multiple Pregnancies: Carrying twins, triplets, or more increases the risk of complications.
Previous Pregnancy Complications: Women who have experienced miscarriages, preterm births, or preeclampsia in previous pregnancies may face higher risks.
Fetal Anomalies: Structural or chromosomal abnormalities detected in the fetus can pose challenges during pregnancy.
High-risk pregnancies are categorised into four main groups:
Maternal Factors: Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and infections in the mother can impact the pregnancy.
Fetal Factors: Abnormalities or genetic disorders detected in the fetus.
Obstetrical Factors: Issues related to the pregnancy itself, like multiple pregnancies or preterm labour.
External Factors: Environmental factors like substance abuse, poor nutrition, or inadequate prenatal care.
In a high-risk pregnancy, it’s crucial to follow medical advice and adhere to recommended guidelines. Avoiding factors that could exacerbate risks is essential, such as:
Poor nutrition and unhealthy habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Overexertion or excessive physical activity.
Ignoring prescribed medications or medical appointments.
Stress and inadequate rest.
Reproductive medicine focuses on assisting couples aiming to conceive and addressing their fertility issues. In contrast, fetal medicine, a specialised obstetric field, aids obstetricians in identifying and managing developmental abnormalities and growth issues in the unborn child during pregnancy.