Dr. ? about twins

svp1537 · August 2010

I know I am very early in this game and anything can happen, but I scheduled my first OB appt for Sept 1, per my RE. Will I need to see a MFM doctor as well? Does my OB make that decision? I noticed several of you on here with twins see a MFM dr... I am just curious.

OrangeSmoke · August 2010

Your OB will refer you to a MFM.

Some MFMs will also deliver, in that case you'll only need to see one doctor.

svp1537 · August 2010

OrangeSmoke:

Your OB will refer you to a MFM.

Some MFMs will also deliver, in that case you'll only need to see one doctor.

Orangesmoke, is it a definite they will refer me to a MFM? Is it case by case? I am sorry for the dumb questions, I just couldn't find a good answer on google anywhere

veronicacorningstone · August 2010

My OB considers all twin pregnancies high risk, which is why I was referred to an MFM. My MFM does not deliver so I see them both.

Some OBs also specialize in high risk pregnancies, which is why some don't refer you to a peri or MFM. I would ask, though. I feel much more comfortable seeing a specialist.

OrangeSmoke · August 2010

svp1537:
OrangeSmoke:

Your OB will refer you to a MFM.

Some MFMs will also deliver, in that case you'll only need to see one doctor.

Orangesmoke, is it a definite they will refer me to a MFM? Is it case by case? I am sorry for the dumb questions, I just couldn't find a good answer on google anywhere

I would challenge any OB who does NOT refer you to an MFM. A twin pregnancy is automatically high risk and you need to lobby for you and your babies health.

OrangeSmoke · August 2010

You will find some people with twins who sees an OB only - but IMO, why not see a specialist?

In my mind, it's like trying to get pregnant with a OB/GYN vs an RE - figure you would understand the analogy

svp1537 · August 2010

Ok... I guess I just wanted to know what the norm was and I definitely want to see a MFM but I didn't want to go into my 1st appt bossing my doctor around But I will, if necessary!

Thanks for your help!

BBColt78 · August 2010

If you ever need it, I have a GREAT peri by us. She is truly outstanding

Mrs.Kiltlifter · August 2010

I do most of my regular care with my OB and when I have problems the MFM steps in. They are basically a part of the same medical practice but have different offices. I have really only needed the MFM once at 14 weeks. But they look at all my scans, bloodwork, etc. I have been incredibly lucky to have a totally uneventful pregnancy, minus the time at 14 weeks when it was discovered I have an irritable uterus with contractions.

On the multiple board, some us OB's only and I think it is fine if your OB has experience with twins. My OB does, and I am definitely on a different schedule with bi-weekly appointments and way more ultrasounds. But it is good to have the other set of eyes!

newsbaby · August 2010

There is a peri that comes in a few hours a week to my ob's office. My ob told me on my first visit to make an appt with her. I thought every multiple pregnancy saw a peri because we are technically considered high risk.

LVBlvd · August 2010

My OB is very expereinced with multiples. She referred me to a MFM for our level II scan. Because everything looks fine and has been going perfectly for me, I stayed with my OB. If problems arise, then I go back to the MFM.

Some twin pregnancies are very uncomplicated and can be handled just fine by an experienced OB.

If you love your OB and she doesn't automatically refer you, I wouldn't freak out and switch doctors. But that is just me.

LVBlvd · August 2010

I wanted to add:

if you do stay with an OB, they will put you on a more specialized schedule. ie. going every 2 weeks instead of 4, ultrasounds once a month, internals/cervical checks after 20 weeks, etc.

In my mind, these are things that ALL multiple pregnancies should get - but can easily be done by an experienced OB.

Now, lets say your cervix starts shortening at 24 weeks. Well then you need to consult with a MFM on the best course of action.

schoolsoutbride · August 2010

I'm seeing a midwife group and a MFM.

waitwhat · August 2010

I don't know if it's different for me since I'm in Canada but my OB is a high risk twin specialist

juliannat · August 2010

I'm Canadian also and my family doc happens to be an OB. If I was pg with a singleton I'd stay with her the whole time, but since I'm having twins I start seeing a MFM at 20-21 weeks.

kme930 · August 2010

If you love your OB and he/she is comfortable with twins, I wouldn't rush to switch. That said, if you want to stay with an MFM for your entire pregnancy, I can tell you from experience that the MFM group at Northwestern does deliveries and is fantastic (though some people might not like it because you rotate through them and don't have one specific doctor).

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