Maternal-Fetal MedicineHigh-Risk Obstetrics

Division Chief: Luis Pacheco MD

About 10 percent of all pregnancies are thought to be "high risk." This means that a maternal or fetal condition is present that could affect the health or well-being of the mother or the baby. Our Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists, or "Perinatologists," have the training and expertise to care for these complicated pregnancies. After completing their Ob/Gyn training, Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists undergo three years of extra training to teach them to deal with even the most complex pregnancies. Although many general obstetrician-gynecologists have experience caring for high-risk pregnancies, there are times when consultation with, or turning the care over to, one of our Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists can make all the difference for a mother, baby, or both!

We specialize in the care of women with complicated medical problems, such as:

• hypertension
• diabetes
• thyroid disease
• seizures
• maternal cardiac disorders
• critical care during pregnacy

We specialize in advanced obstetrical ultrasound and care for fetuses with anomalies or other conditions requiring surveillance and treatment. 

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists at UTMB have written the textbooks and guidelines that others use when caring for pregnant women and their babies.