October 7, 2026
Real Talk with Hurley:
Maternal Fetal Medicine
You’ve got questions about maternal fetal medicine, and we’ve got the expert to answer them.
Whether you’ve just been referred to a maternal fetal medicine specialist or you’re simply wondering what that means — Dr. Robyn Garcia, Hurley’s maternal fetal medicine specialist, sits down for an honest conversation about what to expect, why patients are referred, and how her team works alongside your OB to support you and your baby.
No scripts. No sales pitch. Just real answers to real questions.
Have questions about your pregnancy?
Dr. Garcia and The Center for Maternal Fetal Medicine at Hurley work closely with your OB to give you and your baby an extra set of expert eyes — whether it's a one-time visit or ongoing care.
Watch the Full Episode
Questions & Answers
Jump to a topic, or scroll through them all below.
Understanding Maternal Fetal Medicine
Q1 What is maternal fetal medicine, and how is it different from a regular OB?
Maternal fetal medicine is an extension of general OB/GYN care — specialists like Dr. Garcia complete an OB/GYN residency and then additional specialized training in maternal fetal medicine. She explains that patients are referred for many reasons: a medical condition that needs closer monitoring, a concern about the baby found on ultrasound, a genetic question, or simply added reassurance. The MFM team works hand in hand with your OB/GYN, offering advanced ultrasound imaging and an extra layer of support.
Q2 Does being referred mean something is seriously wrong?
Many patients arrive nervous because of the "high-risk" label, but Dr. Garcia wants them to know a referral doesn't automatically mean something serious. Sometimes there is a medical concern for mom or baby, but often it's about getting more information, a second opinion, or clear guidance on when to be concerned. Some patients see her just once; others are followed more closely — it depends on each pregnancy.
When to Reach Out
Q3 When should you stop searching online and talk to a specialist?
Dr. Garcia actually encourages patients to read up, ask friends and family, and come with questions — it helps them know what to ask. But much of what's online is misleading, extreme, or simply doesn't apply to your situation. Rather than worrying over what you've found, she recommends reaching out to your provider or the MFM team directly so your questions get answered for your specific pregnancy.
Your First Visit
Q4 What can I expect at my first maternal fetal medicine visit?
More than 90 percent of first visits include an ultrasound along with a conversation with Dr. Garcia. Expect vital signs and a blood pressure check, then a sit-down review of your baby's images together. Visits usually take about 30 minutes, sometimes up to an hour, and end with a treatment plan that's shared with your doctor. Some visits are preconception counseling for women planning a pregnancy — no ultrasound needed.
Future Pregnancies
Q5 If I needed maternal fetal medicine once, will I need it in every pregnancy?
Not necessarily. Sometimes history repeats itself and a past concern comes up again, but you won't always need the same level of counseling — and you may already have the information you need. Whether you return to MFM in a future pregnancy depends on your history and what you and your provider feel comfortable with.
How to reach Dr. Garcia and The Center for Maternal Fetal Medicine
Have questions about your pregnancy?
Dr. Garcia and The Center for Maternal Fetal Medicine at Hurley work closely with your OB to give you and your baby an extra set of expert eyes — whether it's a one-time visit or ongoing care.
Featured Guest
- Maternal Fetal Medicine
Your Host
- Host, Real Talk with Hurley
Lisa Marie is Hurley's Digital & Grassroots Marketing Coordinator and a former mid-Michigan radio personality.