5.5 Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) in Surrogacy: What It Is and When It’s Needed

1. What Is Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM)?

While your regular OB handles routine prenatal care, an MFM doctor steps in when there are specific risks or questions about the pregnancy. They may get involved before pregnancy even begins, reviewing a surrogate’s medical history to make sure everything looks good for approval. They might also provide second opinions during pregnancy or manage health concerns if any complications arise.

Some of the most common reasons a surrogate may see an MFM include:

A history of preterm labor or high blood pressure
Carrying twins
Developing gestational diabetes or preeclampsia
Needing extra monitoring or testing for the baby

In short, MFM doctors help catch problems early and guide everyone through more complicated parts of the pregnancy when needed.

2. When Is MFM Involved in the Surrogacy Process?

There are a few key points in the journey when MFM may be consulted.

Before Medical Clearance

Sometimes, a fertility clinic will ask an MFM to review a potential surrogate’s medical records before she’s officially approved. This is especially common if there’s a history of complications in past pregnancies—like a prior C-section, high blood pressure, or gestational diabetes. The MFM will review the records and either give clearance or suggest further evaluation before moving forward.

During Pregnancy

If something unexpected comes up—like abnormal lab results or concerns on an ultrasound—an MFM may be brought in to help guide the care plan. They may recommend extra ultrasounds, tests, or changes in medication. If the surrogate is carrying twins, or develops a condition like placenta previa or preeclampsia, MFM will likely be part of the medical team alongside the OB.

If Complications Arise

In some cases, intended parents may request an MFM opinion for peace of mind, or the OB may refer the surrogate if there’s a need for closer monitoring. Whether it’s a concern about the baby’s growth, the surrogate’s health, or a possible early delivery, MFM helps provide answers and make thoughtful decisions.

3. Why MFM Support Is So Valuable in Surrogacy

In surrogacy, every layer of care matters. Surrogates are carrying someone else’s child, and intended parents are trusting that the best care is in place. MFM helps fill in the gaps when pregnancies are a little more complex. Their involvement can prevent issues, ease worries, and ensure that decisions are backed by expert insight.

At GSHC, we see MFM as a partner in the process—not just for high-risk situations, but as a resource for support, reassurance, and better outcomes.

Caring for the Whole Journey

Not every surrogate will need to see an MFM, but when they do, it’s a step toward protecting everyone involved—surrogate, baby, and intended parents. Whether it’s for medical screening, monitoring, or support during a more complex pregnancy, MFM helps ensure that every journey stays safe, informed, and as smooth as possible.

At GSHC Surrogacy & Egg Donation, we believe that good care starts with good planning. That’s why we involve top maternal-fetal medicine specialists when needed—so our surrogates are supported and our intended parents feel confident every step of the way.

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