Pregnant person cradling their stomach
Birthing Complications

If Complications Occur

Birth is an exciting and special time in your life.  Our nurses and physicians are committed to providing you with the comfort and caring expertise you need throughout your childbirth stay. All of our physicians, obstetricians, and pediatricians have extensive training in high-risk situations. They have all trained at large medical centers with high-risk populations. If complications occur in your pregnancy, during your delivery, or with your newborn, our physicians and nurses are well prepared to care for you and your baby.

High-Risk Pregnancies

In the event that you experience a high-risk pregnancy, our physicians may consult with a perinatologist (physician specializing in high-risk pregnancies). For certain risk factors, you will be able to deliver at MCH. If your risk factors are more severe, your OB/GYN and the perinatologist may recommend that you deliver at a medical center with a higher level of care.

High-risk Newborns

If complications arise with your delivery or your newborn, MCH’s medical staff has the most up-to-date training and experience. Our professionals receive ongoing education and training to ensure that they are proficient in the latest care and techniques.

  • Regular fetal monitoring education and updates sanctioned by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetrics and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN)
  • Neonatal Resuscitation Program: A national program of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Heart Association
  • S.T.A.B.L.E Program– Endorsed by the March of Dimes, this neonatal continuing education program focuses exclusively on the post-resuscitation/pre-transport stabilization care of sick newborns
  • Participate in a high risk review program with high risk obstetricians and newborn specialists from Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center
  • Credentialed in Fetal Monitoring

Our pediatricians regularly consult with neonatologists (physicians specializing in high-risk newborns) at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH and at the major medical centers in Boston. For certain risk factors, your baby will stay at MCH. For other risk factors, your baby may be transferred to another hospital.

Transfers to Major Medical Centers

We have close professional relationships with high-risk specialists at all major medical centers in our state. If a transfer is needed for a high-risk pregnancy or intensive newborn care, we will refer you to a center that specializes in the care appropriate for you and your baby.