Difference between genetic counsellor and maternity fetal medicine

Hi
  What is the difference between a genetic counsellor and a dr of maternity fetal medicine.are they one & the same or is there any difference.My ob/gyn referred me to a Dr in maternity fetal medicine after the results of my 2nd miscarriage came with chromosomal abnormality. i thought she would refer me to genetic counsellor so was wondering if both are the same.

[eureka254]

Genetic counselors and maternal-fetal-medicine specialists (called perinatologists) often deal with similar concerns, but they are different in several ways.  

MFM doctors are obstetricians who have experience in high-risk pregnancies.  MFMs are called on for many reasons: when women have medical conditions that put their pregnancy at high risk; when women repeatedly miscarry after they get pregnant; when premature labor occurs; when there are multiples, like twins or triplets (just a few examples). MFMs are specially trained to handle complications related to pregnancy and delivery, and often assist regular OBs when a pregnancy doesn't follow normal routine.  They handle the health of the mother to best support a full-term pregnancy.

Genetic counselors are not doctors; they are usually individuals with special training in understanding birth defects and genetic conditions.  (Most genetic counselors are professional with Master's Degrees instead of Medical Degrees.)  They are usually called upon to help with problems that affect the baby during pregnancy and help interpret test results related to a baby's condition:  when baby has anatomical differences on ultrasound; when baby has a chromosomal difference; when baby may develop genetic conditions from parents; when mother takes medication that can cause birth defects.  They provide information, testing options, and support to families with genetic concerns.  

Perhaps your doctor referred you to an MFM because of your miscarriages; however, since your pregnancy loss was due to a chromosomal abnormality, a genetic counselor would most likely be beneficial as well.  Hope that helps. ~eureka