The program is designed to be consultative. And although AAMC is capable of caring for pre-term babies, the main goal of the Maternal Fetal Medicine program is to prevent those premature births whenever possible. Among the program's other goals are diagnosis and management of health problems in both mother and baby. The program works with OB-GYNs to monitor the health of these mothers and keep risk levels at their very lowest. A four-part strategy has been developed through the Maternal Fetal Medicine program to aid mothers with diabetes, for example.
Mothers carrying more than one baby make up another obvious high-risk category.
In a multiple pregnancy the incidence of toxemia and high blood pressure is greater. Women older than 35, certainly over 40, also need special attention during pregnancy. After 35, the potential is higher for chromosomal problems in the fetus, pre-term delivery and gestational diabetes. This category of high-risk moms benefits most from the program's genetic consultation services. Even before they start a family, couples can be referred to the Genetic Consultation component of AAMC's Maternal Fetal Medicine program.