The links provided are intended for the purpose of education only. Diagnosis and treatment information may not represent the individual practice of the Perinatal Consulting Group staff. We do not endorse the products shown on any site.
Helpful Resources:
Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine
Wisconsin Association for Perinatal Care
Fetal Hope Foundation
Preeclampsia Foundation
Pregnancy After 35 - March of Dimes
Surviving Bed Rest
Pregnancy and Heart Disease - American Heart Association
Am I at Risk for Gestational Diabetes?
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Why might a patient be referred to a perinatologist?
A: A physician might seek consultation from or refer a patient to a perinatologist because they are "at risk" and considering becoming pregnant or because they are pregnant and "high risk", "complicated", or otherwise worried about their pregnancy.
Q: What causes a high risk pregnancy?
A: There are factors that can be present before a woman gets pregnant that can cause concern for her during pregnancy. Risk factors can include:
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Advanced Maternal Age (35 or older at the time of delivery)
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Being overweight or underweight
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases
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Having had problems in previous pregnancies
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Pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, heart problems, or HIV
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Concerns with baby identified on ultrasound or screening tests
Q: What can I do to prevent a high risk pregnancy?
A: It is always a good idea to see your health professional if you decide to try getting pregnancy to ensure you're in good preconception health. These steps can help reduce your risk:
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Getting at least 400 micrograms of folic acid every day if she thinks she could become pregnant, and continuing folic acid when she does get pregnant
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Getting proper immunizations
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Maintaining a healthy weight and diet, getting regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking, alcohol, or drug use
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Starting prenatal care appointments early in pregnancy
Q: Will a perinatologist deliver my baby?
A: No. We are strictly a consultative practice. We work in conjunction with your primary care provider to ensure that you and your baby receive the care you deserve.
Q: How can I make an appointment to see Dr. Larmon?
A: Dr. Larmon only sees patients referred directly from their obstetrician, family physician, or nurse midwife. She does not deliver your baby but works hand in hand with your practitioner to help you receive the best care possible for you during your pregnancy.
Q: How can I get my doctor to refer me to Dr. Larmon?
A: It is always best to discuss your concerns with your practitioner and develop a plan together that best meets your needs. Your practitioner can then contact our office directly to make the referral if needed.
Q: How long will my appointment take?
A: Typically your appointment(s) will be 1 hour. You will first see the nurse, then the ultrasound technologist, followed by Dr. Larmon. On your first visit we ask you to come early to complete paperwork, i.e insurance information, and meet with the nurse to review your completed health history and genetic questionnaire.
However, your appointment could take longer than 1 hour if you have more than one baby you are carrying, you are scheduled to meet with the genetic counselor or the diabetes educator, or if you need additional testing. Additional testing could include monitoring your baby using a fetal monitor, blood testing, or you may chose to have genetic testing.
Q: Do I need to bring anything to my appointment?
A: We ask your bring your current insurance card/information. Dr. Larmon takes most types of insurance but we suggest you contact your insurance company to review your available coverage prior to your appointment.
