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Discovering you’ve been referred to a maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialist can feel overwhelming at first, but understanding this pivotal step in your prenatal care journey can transform uncertainty into empowerment. Whether you’re facing a high-risk pregnancy, managing a chronic condition, or simply need specialized monitoring, an MFM specialist brings advanced expertise to support both you and your growing baby. Here’s what that referral means and what you can expect next. What is Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM)? Maternal-fetal medicine specialists are dual-board-certified obstetricians with advanced training in high-risk pregnancy, and many people also use the term high-risk obstetrician for MFM specialists. There’s an additional layer to the MFM meaning beyond just the acronym. The hyphen in maternal-fetal medicine represents medicine that treats maternal and fetal health as fundamentally linked. It’s an approach to care that recognizes you can’t truly focus on outcomes for the baby without also caring for the mother, and […]

At just 18 months old, Carli was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, beginning a journey filled with uncertainty. Despite normal MRIs and no birth trauma, her mobility challenges grew more severe over time. By age 9, walking had become exhausting. After years of searching for answers, Carli’s family found hope at Nemours Children’s Hospital in Delaware, where Dr. Wade Shrader confirmed that surgery could improve her mobility and quality of life. In January 2025, Carli underwent a major procedure followed by months of rehabilitation. Recovery was tough, but Carli wasn’t alone. Enter Luna, Monk, Pumpkin, and Ali — therapy and facility dogs who became Carli’s companions, comforters, and cheerleaders during her recovery. Whether lying beside her during painful moments or walking with her after surgery, these furry friends brought smiles, strength, and healing. Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is just one example of the holistic care Carli received. Music and art therapy, games […]

You’ve probably heard the news lately about measles outbreaks in the U.S. Although the disease was declared eliminated here in 2000, there have been increasing outbreaks across the country since 2024. In fact, 2025 saw more confirmed cases of measles in the U.S. than in any year since 1991. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have already reported more than 982 confirmed cases in just the first two months of 2026, with the most occurring in South Carolina and Utah. With cases on the rise, parents must understand measles and know what they need to do to prevent and spot it in their children. Vaccinations: The Best Protection Against Measles Measles is a highly contagious virus and it’s not just a rash and a fever. It can cause serious health complications, especially in children younger than 5. The large majority of people who get measles are unvaccinated (so […]

Every year, 13 million Americans — including teenagers — contract HPV. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly every sexually active person will get an HPV infection at some point in their life. Most infections clear up, but some persist and develop into cancer. The HPV vaccine can prevent this, yet many parents remain uncertain about whether or not to vaccinate their children. For some, it’s fear of side effects. For others, it’s concerns about why it needs to be given so young, and even the implication of saying yes. If you’re a parent trying to make the best decision for your child, here are answers to the most common questions and concerns about the HPV vaccine. What is HPV? HPV (human papillomavirus) is a group of viruses transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, such as vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Some strains of HPV cause warts, and […]

You might think cholesterol and heart disease are only adult concerns, but research shows cardiovascular disease begins in childhood. Many teens have unhealthy cholesterol levels, meaning their good cholesterol is too low or their bad cholesterol is too high. And the risk increases dramatically with weight — with obese teens being affected at a rate of 43%. Since childhood obesity rates are significantly higher than in previous generations, more kids are developing abnormal cholesterol levels early. And obesity doesn’t just affect cholesterol — it increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke. Ready to make a real difference in your child’s heart health? Here are four simple habits you can start today. 1. Get Moving Every Day Being active at a young age can help lay the groundwork for being physically active as an adult. But how much exercise is recommended for children? Healthy kids should get […]

Prenatal genetic counseling and preconception (the time period and care that happens prior to pregnancy) genetic counseling and testing offer ways to gain further information and education that can help patients and families make informed decisions about their pregnancy and for preconception planning. There are many testing options available nowadays with different benefits, risks, and limitations. This article lays the foundation for essential questions you may have, such as: However, it’s important to keep in mind that genetic counseling and genetic testing are voluntary — it’s your choice. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) reaffirmed in January 2026 that, “After pretest counseling, every patient has the right to pursue or decline prenatal genetic screening and diagnostic testing.” So, keep the communication open with your OB/GYN, or maternal-fetal medicine doctors, about the types of testing you’re comfortable with and what the information means (and what it doesn’t). […]