Perinatology examination is a detailed assessment performed to closely monitor the course of pregnancy and identify possible risks at an early stage. During this process, the mother’s general health, pregnancy history and any existing diseases are taken into consideration. The specialist doctor carefully examines the baby’s organ development, placental position and amniotic fluid amount with the help of advanced ultrasound devices.

• Contents
• What is Perinatology?
• Areas of Responsibility of the Perinatology Specialist
• How is Perinatology Follow-up Performed in High-Risk Pregnancies?
• What is the Difference Between Perinatology and Obstetrics?
• In Which Weeks Is Perinatology Required?
• What Should You Pay Attention to When Going for a Perinatology Examination? 
• Perinatology Methods Used in Monitoring Fetal Development
• Frequently Asked Questions About Perinatology Examination 

What is Perinatology?

Perinatology is a gynecology and obstetrics specialty that deals with the monitoring and management of high-risk pregnancies. This field, which includes detailed screening, diagnosis and treatment processes to protect the health of the mother and baby, plays a critical role in a healthy birth process. The examination process begins with ultrasound, and when deemed necessary, blood flow is assessed with Doppler ultrasound to check the baby’s oxygenation.

In some cases, genetic screening tests or diagnostic interventional procedures may be recommended. The findings obtained as a result of the examination form the basis of the medical approach to be followed. When risky situations are detected, closer follow-up or advanced tests can be planned. In this way, the most appropriate roadmap for the health of both the mother and the baby is determined.

Areas of Responsibility of the Perinatology Specialist

Perinatology specialists aim to ensure the health of mothers and babies by identifying risky situations that may arise during pregnancy. Expertise in this field requires both the effective use of advanced imaging techniques and multidisciplinary collaboration. The areas of responsibility of perinatology specialists are as follows:

• Conducts detailed examinations and evaluations in high-risk pregnancies.
• Applies advanced ultrasonographic examinations to make early diagnosis of fetal anomalies.
• Performs interventional diagnostic methods such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus biopsy when necessary.
• It provides monitoring of diseases such as hypertensionand diabetes that may be seen during pregnancy .
• Analyzes and monitors the risks that may arise for the mother and the baby in multiple pregnancies.
• Informs the family during the genetic counseling process and provides appropriate guidance.
• It provides holistic follow-up by working in collaboration with  gynecology, neonatology and genetics specialists.

In line with these duties, the perinatologist creates a strategic safety net against problems that may be encountered during pregnancy. Thanks to this approach, the quality of life of both the expectant mother and the baby is increased. The meticulous and disciplined work of the specialist forms the basis of a healthy birth.

How is Perinatology Follow-up Performed in High-Risk Pregnancies?

Perinatology examination and follow-up are carried out with individualized monitoring protocols in high-risk pregnancies. Especially in cases of premature birth threat, growth retardation or genetic incompatibility, the process is managed with detailed evaluations.

During the follow-up period, not only the baby’s development but also vital indicators such as placental functions and blood circulation are closely observed. Thanks to advanced technology imaging devices, even microscopic details can be evaluated. When findings requiring treatment are detected, an intervention plan is prepared by quickly coordinating with the relevant medical units.

Particularly lesser known factors such as immunological factors or systemic diseases are also examined comprehensively. This entire process necessitates a multidisciplinary approach in terms of risky pregnancy follow-up. Thus, the journey from prenatal to birth is under professional control at every step.

What is the Difference Between Perinatology and Obstetrics?

Although perinatology and obstetrics and gynecology provide services in similar areas related to pregnancy, their focus is different. The differences between obstetrics and perinatology are as follows:

• While obstetricians manage the pregnancy process, perinatologists focus on early diagnosis of risky conditions.
• Perinatology specialists perform detailed examinations using advanced ultrasonography and genetic tests.
• While obstetrics and gynecology practice mostly covers deliveries with a physiological course, perinatology aims to predict possible complications.
• Perinatologists detail the follow-up processes in multiple pregnancies or in mothers with chronic diseases .
• Obstetrician-gynecologist manages the moment of birth. Perinatology deepens risk analysis in the prenatal period.
• Perinatologists focus on special areas such as placental problems or fetal development disorders.
• While the obstetrician-gynecologist progresses with routine follow-up and treatments, perinatology stands out with advanced intervention planning.
• High-risk pregnancy monitoring forms the basis of the detailed monitoring processes within this specialty.

Obstetrics and perinatology complement each other by bringing different perspectives to the same process. The harmony of both specialties is critical for risk management and a healthy birth. This distinction allows for a safer process to be planned for both mother and baby.

In Which Weeks Is Perinatology Required?

Perinatology examination helps to observe whether the pregnancy process is progressing healthily with evaluations made at certain periods. In particular, nuchal translucency measurement between the 11th and 14th weeks and detailed ultrasound application between the 18th and 23rd weeks of pregnancy are critical time periods in terms of perinatology. These weeks are of great importance in terms of early recognition of possible structural or genetic problems.

In the second and third trimesters, if conditions such as slowing down in the baby’s development, changes in amniotic fluid, or problems related to the placenta are detected, re-evaluation may be necessary. These follow-ups guide both the mother’s health and the course of fetal development. Perinatologists manage the process with advanced imaging and genetic counseling support when necessary.

What Should You Pay Attention to When Going for a Perinatology Examination? 

Being prepared when going for a perinatology examination ensures that the process progresses with both efficient and accurate assessments. It may be useful for the mother to take notes of the medications she uses, her illnesses, or her previous pregnancy history before the appointment. Choosing appropriate clothing for the abdominal area for imaging procedures that may be performed during the examination makes the process easier.

At the same time, thinking about the questions to be asked to the doctor in advance or taking notes will clarify the flow of information. It should be learned in advance whether it is a procedure that requires fasting. In order to minimize stress and anxiety, it can be supportive for the expectant mother to have someone she trusts with her. These details both strengthen communication with the doctor and open the door to a healthy monitoring process.

Perinatology Methods Used in Monitoring Fetal Development

Perinatology examination is also important in monitoring fetal development. Perinatology methods used in monitoring fetal development aim to reveal not only the baby’s growth rate but also its functional structure. In particular, blood flow dynamics are examined with doppler ultrasonography to evaluate placental and umbilical cord functionality. This method provides important clues about the baby’s oxygenation level and nutritional status.

Cardiotocography (NST) analyzes the heart rhythm along with intrauterine movement. Three- and four-dimensional imaging techniques reveal many details from facial movements to facial anatomy, allowing the examination of developmental structures. In some cases, genetic fetal evaluation is performed with invasive procedures such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling.

This comprehensive follow-up process allows early detection of neurological diseases or structural problems that may arise in the prenatal period. Thanks to developing technologies, perinatology plays an effective role in protecting the health of the baby before it is born.

Frequently Asked Questions About Perinatology Examination 

What does perinatology do?

Perinatology is a subspecialty that evaluates medical risks that may arise during pregnancy. Early detection and management of conditions that may threaten maternal and fetal health form the basis of this field. It includes many special applications, from genetic screening to advanced imaging.

Are perinatologists and obstetricians the same?

While the obstetrician monitors the general course of pregnancy, the perinatologist deals with particularly complex and high-risk cases. Perinatologists provide specialized care by performing detailed examinations with advanced diagnostic methods. Therefore, although the two areas of expertise complement each other, their areas of responsibility are different.

When should a perinatology examination be performed?

An initial interview can be planned for risk assessment in the early weeks of pregnancy. For detailed examination, the ideal time period is generally considered to be between weeks 11-14 and 18-23. Depending on the situation, additional assessments may be required in the third trimester.

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