Do I need a referral?

Not necessarily, though your obstetrician can refer you. The team will explain how this applies to your pregnancy when you come in. In most cases the answer also depends on your medical history, so bring it up at your appointment.

Should every pregnant woman see one?

Not necessarily. It helps when there are findings or risk factors. Your specialist will factor in your reports and dates before giving you a definite answer. If you are unsure whether this applies to you, ask the doctor at your next scan.

When is the best time for a first visit?

Ideally early, around the NT scan window of 11 to 14 weeks, or whenever a concern arises. The details depend on your dates, history and earlier reports, so your doctor will tailor the answer to you. If this is your situation, the safest step is to ask at your next visit rather than waiting.

Will I need to change my regular doctor?

No. The specialist usually works alongside your obstetrician. Your own result can differ, which is why the specialist looks at the whole picture before advising. It is a reasonable question to ask directly. the answer often depends on your scan findings.

What if the scan is normal?

That is good news, and you continue routine care. The team will explain how this applies to your pregnancy when you come in. In most cases the answer also depends on your medical history, so bring it up at your appointment.

Twins and high-risk pregnancy

When to See a Fetal Medicine Specialist

Q: Is a fetal medicine specialist the same as a gynaecologist?

No. They are obstetricians with additional training in fetal conditions and prenatal diagnosis. For appointments, the second opinion scan page has the details, and our fetal medicine specialists can advise whether it fits your situation. A fetal medicine specialist is an obstetrician with extra training in the care of the unborn baby.

A fetal medicine specialist cares for pregnancies with scan findings or higher risks. Learn when a referral is worth considering.

Written and medically reviewed by the FMC Trichy clinical team4 October 20264 min read

In this guide

Specialist doctor discussing a scan with expecting parents

What does a fetal medicine specialist do?

A fetal medicine specialist is an obstetrician with extra training in the care of the unborn baby. They perform detailed scans such as the NT scan and anomaly scan, fetal echo, Doppler studies and growth monitoring, offer screening and diagnostic tests, and counsel families about findings.

Situations where a visit is helpful

A scan shows a structural finding or soft marker.
A screening test (double marker, NIPT) shows higher risk.
The baby is measuring small or large.
Abnormal amniotic fluid levels.
Twin or multiple pregnancy, especially with a shared placenta.
A previous baby with a birth defect or genetic condition.
Recurrent miscarriage or stillbirth in the past.
Maternal conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, lupus or thyroid disease.
Exposure to infections or certain medicines during pregnancy.
Conception after fertility treatment, where a detailed check is wanted.

Key scans often done by fetal medicine specialists

First trimester NT scan, around 11 to 14 weeks.
Detailed anomaly scan, around 18 to 22 weeks.
Fetal echocardiogram when the heart needs a closer look.
Growth and Doppler scans in the third trimester.

What to bring to the visit

Previous scan reports, blood test results, a list of medicines, and a list of your questions.

Is a Referral Needed?

Not always. Many clinics accept direct appointments, but your obstetrician can also guide you on timing.

The essentials

Seeing a specialist early often brings clarity and calm. Dr Malathi G. Prasad at Trichy Fetal Medicine and Fertility Centre in Trichy offers detailed fetal scans and counselling to guide you through pregnancy with confidence.

For appointments, the second opinion scan page has the details, and our fetal medicine specialists can advise whether it fits your situation.

Common questions

Sources

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Antenatal care (NG201), 2021. · nice.org.uk
ISUOG Patient Information Series. · isuog.org

This guide is for general information and does not replace a consultation with a fetal medicine specialist.

In line with the PCPNDT Act, we do not perform or support sex determination.

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