Obstetrician vs Maternal–Fetal Medicine Specialist: Choosing the Right Pregnancy Care in Australia
When you’re pregnant, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is who will look after you and your baby. Most women know about obstetricians, but fewer know about maternal–fetal medicine (MFM) specialists — also known as perinatologists in the USA.
Whether you have a low-risk pregnancy or a more complex one, understanding the difference between an obstetrician and an MFM specialist can help you make a confident choice. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is an Obstetrician?
An obstetrician is a doctor trained in pregnancy, birth, and women’s reproductive health. In Australia, obstetricians complete:
- 6 years of medical school (or an undergraduate general degree followed by 4 years of medical school)
- 6 years of specialist training in obstetrics and gynaecology (through RANZCOG)
They care for women with both low-risk and high-risk pregnancies, perform vaginal and caesarean deliveries, and manage common pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, and twins.
What Is a Maternal–Fetal Medicine (MFM) Specialist?
A maternal–fetal medicine specialist is an obstetrician who has also completed an additional three years of subspecialty training with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG), focusing exclusively on high-level pregnancy care
This extra training covers:
- Complex and high-risk pregnancies – including multiple pregnancies, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, and maternal medical conditions like diabetes, autoimmune disease, or heart problems
- Advanced pregnancy ultrasound – highly detailed scans, early diagnosis of fetal conditions, and precise monitoring
- Fetal therapy and in-utero procedures – such as laser surgery for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome or intrauterine transfusions
- Research and guideline development – ensuring care is evidence-based and aligned with the latest medical advances
To be certified by RANZCOG as a subspecialist in Maternal-Fetal Medicine, training includes time working in specialist MFM clinics, completion of multiple practical assessments in clinical MFM and ultrasound, completion of a research paper, and satisfactory completion of subspecialist exams. Maternal-Fetal Medicine subspecialists are required to continue to remain up to date with new research and participate in on-going professional development and research in order to maintain their subspecialty accreditation with RANZCOG.
MFM specialists are often called the “pregnancy specialist’s specialist”, and will often see patients referred from other obstetricians when pregnancies become more complicated.
Benefits of Choosing an MFM Specialist
Even if your pregnancy is low-risk, there are several advantages to choosing an MFM specialist as your primary pregnancy care provider:
1. Highest Level of Training
MFM specialists typically complete around 15 years of training before practising independently — meaning you are in the hands of one of the most highly trained doctors in pregnancy care.
2. Expertise for Every Scenario
Whether your pregnancy is smooth and uncomplicated or develops challenges along the way, your doctor already has the expertise to manage everything — you won’t need to be referred elsewhere.
3. Comprehensive Monitoring
Because MFM specialists have advanced ultrasound training, many can perform detailed scans in their own rooms. This can mean fewer referrals, faster results, and continuity of care.
4. Expert Counselling Skills
MFM specialists have extensive experience in counselling women and families in very complex situations, and are trained in navigating through uncertainty and stressful situations with clear evidence-based advice and compassionate counselling. These skills are directly transferrable to low risk pregnancies, which still often require decision-making in the setting of uncertainty. Examples include navigating the array of options for genetic screening and developing clear plans for birthing options based on your preferences, often in the setting of conflicting advice from friends, family and social media.
5. Early Detection and Prevention
MFM specialists can identify potential issues earlier and put plans in place to reduce risks — from preterm birth prevention strategies to personalised birth planning.
6. Peace of Mind for Low-Risk Pregnancies
Even if your pregnancy stays completely normal, many women value the reassurance of knowing their care is overseen by a doctor with the highest level of expertise.
Choosing Between an Obstetrician and an MFM Specialist
For most women, both an obstetrician and an MFM specialist can both provide excellent pregnancy care. The difference comes down to the level of specialised training and scope of expertise you want.
If you prefer to have your care managed by someone with the highest possible level of training in pregnancy medicine, an MFM specialist offers that extra layer of expertise — whether your pregnancy is simple or complex.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a referral to see an MFM specialist?
Yes — in most cases you will need a referral from your GP or another doctor to see an MFM specialist in Australia, just like you would for a general obstetrician.
Are MFM specialists more expensive than obstetricians?
Fees can vary between providers. Some MFM specialists charge similar fees to private obstetricians, while others may be slightly higher due to the additional expertise and services (such as in-room advanced ultrasound).
Do MFM specialists also deliver babies?
Yes! MFM specialists are still obstetricians — they deliver babies, perform caesarean sections, and manage labour just like other obstetricians.
Should I see an MFM specialist if my pregnancy is low-risk?
Women with low-risk pregnancies are spoiled for choice! Many women will choose care with a general obstetrician, often based on recommendations from friends or trusted healthcare providers. Many women also choose MFM specialist care for peace of mind even in a low-risk pregnancy.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between an obstetrician and an MFM specialist is a personal decision. Both are highly qualified to look after you and your baby.
However, an MFM specialist provides the most advanced level of pregnancy care available in Australia — from routine antenatal visits to highly specialised management of complex pregnancies.
Even if your pregnancy is low-risk, knowing that your doctor can expertly handle anything that arises can give you reassurance throughout your journey to motherhood.