Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist

By: Toshani Kapoor

A Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist, also known as a MFM is a type of doctor who specializes in high risk pregnancies. They often work alongside OBGYN’s, and they typically work in either a hospital, a high-risk pregnancy center, or a consultation office. MFM’s provide diagnostic testing such as ultrasounds, echocardiograms, fetal MRI’s, and genetic counseling to monitor the health and growth of the fetus. Their goal is to create a safe and collaborative plan that ensures a safe pregnancy.  

In addition to working alongside OBGYN's, MFM Specialists are most involved when there is a major complication during a pregnancy. In some cases, it is affecting both the mom and baby, while in others it is just one person being affected. Some examples of the complications MFM Specialists treat are, preeclampsia, premature labor, problems with growth, and pregnancies with more than one baby, such as twins or triplets, and more. When these issues occur, MFM specialists provide expert guidance on how to manage the pregnancy while keeping both the mother and baby healthy. They have to carefully track and observe the progress of the pregnancy and be able to adjust to care plans quickly, since conditions can change throughout the course of a pregnancy.

Becoming a MFM Specialist requires many years of education and training. After completing a bachelor’s degree, rising MFM Specialists must attend medical school, as many other types of doctors. This typically takes four years. After completing medical school, rising MFM’s enter a residency program in obstetrics and gynecology. Here, they receive hands on training in pregnancy care and childbirth. After completing this residency, rising MFM’s complete an additional fellowship training in maternal fetal medicine, which is typically two to three years. This specialized training prepares them to handle complex and high risk pregnancies by using advanced technology.

The daily life of an MFM Specialist does vary depending on their workplace. For example, in hospitals MFM Specialists may assist with emergency situations, perform detailed ultrasounds, and consult on complicated cases. In an outpatient clinic, they meet with patients who have been referred by their OB GYN for specific and specialized care. MFM Specialists also work closely along other healthcare professionalists, such as neonatologists, genetic counselors, nurses, and more people in order to create the best possible care and pregnancy plans for families. This teamwork ensures that patients receive comprehensive care throughout their pregnancy and after.

Although this career can be emotionally challenging, many MFM specialists find their laborious work meaningful. Supporting families through difficult times requires compassion and strong communication skills. However, being able to improve pregnancy outcomes and support families during stressful and challenging times makes this career rewarding. Overall MFM Specialists play a critical role in protecting maternal and infant health by ensuring safer pregnancies for those who are facing high risk conditions.

 Works Cited

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“What to Expect: Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist.” Hackensackmeridianhealth.org, 2018, www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/healthu/2018/09/17/what-to-expect-from-a-maternal-fetal-medicine-specialist. Accessed 31 Jan. 2026.“What It’s like in Maternal-Fetal Medicine: Shadowing Dr. Plenty.” American Medical Association, 19 Feb. 2020, www.ama-assn.org/medical-students/specialty-profiles/what-it-s-maternal-fetal-medicine-shadowing-dr-plenty. Accessed 31 Jan. 2026.

Dallas. “What to Expect at Your First Maternal-Fetal Medicine Appointment.” Fetal Care Center Dallas, 2 Apr. 2024, fetalcaredallas.com/blog/what-to-expect-at-your-first-maternal-fetal-medicine-appointment/. Accessed 31 Jan. 2026.

“Maternal-Fetal Medicine | Corewell Health.” Corewell Health, 2026, corewellhealth.org/care-and-specialties/womens-health/pregnancy-hub/maternal-fetal-medicine. Accessed 31 Jan. 2026.“MFM Fellowship - Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine.” Smfm.org, 2017, www.smfm.org/fellowship. Accessed 31 Jan. 2026.