Specialized Pregnancy Care

Whether you face a higher risk of pregnancy complications or struggle with other difficulties, we can help you. UMass Memorial has specialized services that are not widely available. These offerings give your baby the best chance for an excellent start in life while helping you feel your best.

Conditions We Manage and Treat

Our services help people who have or are at risk for conditions that raise the risk of complications. These issues may affect the pregnant person or their growing baby.

They include: 

• Gestational diabetes
• Substance use disorder
• Heart disease, pre-existing or new
• High-risk pregnancy
• Mental health concerns, like anxiety and depression    

Our Specialized Pregnancy Services

Specialized pregnancy services help you navigate conditions and other circumstances that require extra attention. You receive care from highly skilled providers who use the latest information and science to help you achieve your goals. Our friendly, welcoming environment makes it easier to discuss sensitive matters and plan the next steps of your pregnancy.

Genetic Testing and Counseling

Genetic screening is available to determine if your baby is at risk for a variety of different conditions.  The chance of having one of these conditions may be affected by family history or ethnic background.  Many of these tests can be done using a blood sample or cheek swab from a parent. Certified genetic counselors help you decide whether to pursue testing. If you opt for testing, they will explain the results and their potential impact on your pregnancy and baby. Learn more about genetic testing.

Diabetes in Pregnancy

Pre-pregnancy diabetes (type 1 and type 2) and diabetes that develops during pregnancy (gestational diabetes) puts you and your baby at risk for complications. Knowledgeable specialists deliver services that help keep blood sugar levels in a safe range. We teach you how to take an active role in managing diabetes and provide ongoing monitoring until after you deliver. 

Substance Use Disorder Services in Pregnancy and Postpartum

We offer compassionate, confidential help to pregnant people with substance use disorder. Receive the supportive, nonjudgmental services you need and deserve from providers who are experts in this care. In addition to prenatal care, we provide medication treatment and information to assist you in recovery. Find out more about opioid addiction services for mothers.

Heart Disease In Pregnancy

In women with pre-existing heart disease, the usual physical demands of pregnancy can put added strain on the heart. Expert care from our team lowers your risk of complications from preconception through the postpartum period. We coordinate treatments and special precautions that protect your heart so you can focus on your growing baby. Find out more about pregnancy and heart disease. 

High-Risk Pregnancy Care

UMass Memorial is the only medical center in Central Massachusetts that has 24/7 availability of maternal-fetal medicine doctors. They manage the care of pregnant people with existing medical conditions and issues that may worsen during pregnancy. Our maternal-fetal medicine specialists care for pregnancies for unborn babies with known or suspected medical conditions including congenital anomalies. Explore maternal-fetal medicine.

Doulas for Black Pregnant People

Black people face a higher risk of pregnancy complications than white people. We are working toward reducing this disparity by providing additional support. We connect eligible patients with a pregnancy care professional (doula) who provides support before, during and after childbirth. Explore our Doulas for Black Birthing People program.

Mental Health for Pregnant People

If you have a known, worsening, or newly developed mental health condition in pregnancy or postpartum (after birth), we can help. Obstetricians collaborate with perinatal psychiatrists and connect you with the therapies and support you need. Women's mental health services are available within the UMass Memorial Health system. We can also help you access additional community-based resources if you are not eligible for our program.

Family-Centered Childbirth

Experienced, compassionate providers put you and your loved ones at the center of everything we do. These efforts are especially apparent during labor and delivery and postpartum hospitalization. We take time to listen to your preferences and coordinate additional services to meet them. Get more information about family-centered childbirth.