Perinatology

This is a subspecialty of obstetrics, concerned with the care of the mother and fetus at high-risk for complications. A perinatologist is trained to make complicated diagnoses and perform complex procedures in order to ensure the successful birth of a high-risk baby. These complications include high blood pressure, diabetes, medical conditions that would be affected by pregnancy or that may affect the pregnancy, multiple births or premature labor. Depending on the complications, the perinatologist may be required to deliver the baby.

A perinatologist requires seven years of education and training to become board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, with a subspecialty in perinatology. This includes four years of medical school, a one-year internship in pediatrics and a two-year residency in pediatrics, followed by an additional two-to-three years of training in maternal-fetal medicine.

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