Al-Hayat Clinic

Specialized Care for Pregnancies at Risk of Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR)

At Corniche Hospital, we recognize that every pregnancy is unique, and some require closer monitoring and specialized care. The Al-Hayat Clinic, part of our renowned Fetal Medicine Unit, is dedicated to supporting women at risk of having small-for-gestational-age babies due to a condition called Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR).
Our goal is early identification, personalized monitoring, and proactive management to help ensure the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby.

Why Choose the Al-Hayat Clinic?

Dedicated Expertise in Fetal Growth Monitoring

The Al-Hayat Clinic brings together a team of experienced fetal medicine consultants, sonographers, and maternal-fetal specialists who are trained in the early detection and management of FGR and other high-risk pregnancy conditions.

Focused Care for High-Risk Pregnancies

Women referred to the Al-Hayat Clinic are often those with higher risk factors for FGR or pregnancy complications. Our clinic provides targeted assessments and a customized care plan to reduce risks and improve outcomes.

Evidence-Based Protocols

Our monitoring and intervention protocols follow the latest international guidelines in fetal medicine. This ensures that every decision made from ultrasound schedules to delivery timing is backed by clinical research and best practices.

When is Al-Hayat Clinic Recommended

Referral to the Al-Hayat Clinic is typically recommended for women with one or more of the following risk factors:

History of delivering a small-for-gestational-age baby in a previous pregnancy
High risk for preeclampsia, a pregnancy-related condition involving elevated blood pressure
Underlying medical conditions such as:
Chronic hypertension (high blood pressure)
Kidney disease
Other disorders that can affect placental function
History of stillbirth in a past pregnancy
Advanced maternal age (over 42 years)
Other factors identified during routine antenatal screenings that may suggest increased risk

Referral does not mean a confirmed diagnosis of FGR. It means that specialist monitoring is recommended to support the health of both mother and baby.

Understanding Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR)

Fetal Growth Restriction affects approximately 1 in 20 pregnancies. It occurs when the baby does not grow at the expected rate inside the womb, often due to reduced blood flow or nutrient transfer through the placenta.

At the Al-Hayat Clinic, our priority is early detection and proactive management of this condition. FGR can increase the risk of complications if left undetected, including preterm delivery or stillbirth. However, with the right care and timely intervention, most babies diagnosed with FGR can have positive outcomes.

What to Expect During Your Clinic Visit

Your first appointment at the Al-Hayat Clinic is usually scheduled between 22 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. The visit includes:
A detailed review of your medical history and any previous pregnancy outcomes
A comprehensive ultrasound performed by a fetal medicine consultant, focusing on:
Baby’s growth measurements
Placental function assessment, using a test called uterine artery Doppler to evaluate blood flow to the placenta
A discussion of findings, where your consultant will explain results and answer any questions
A personalized care plan, outlining the recommended follow-up schedule and any necessary investigations or treatments

If required, frequent follow-up visits will be arranged at the Al-Hayat Clinic, along with scheduled growth scans in the antenatal outpatient department to monitor your baby’s progress.

Our Expertise in Fetal Growth Monitoring

The Al-Hayat Clinic team is skilled in the use of advanced fetal monitoring tools and decision-making protocols, including:

Customized fetal growth charts to track individual progress
Doppler studies to assess placental and fetal blood flow
Biophysical profile assessments for fetal well-being
Timing of delivery decisions, carefully balancing the baby’s growth with readiness for life outside the womb

Patient-Centered Approach

We understand that being referred to a high-risk clinic can be stressful. That’s why we focus on clear communication, emotional support, and collaborative decision-making with every patient and family.

Our approach ensures:
You are fully informed about your condition and care options
You have direct access to fetal medicine consultants and specialists
Your care is coordinated between the Al-Hayat Clinic and your primary obstetrician

Advanced Technology and Facilities

The Al-Hayat Clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art ultrasound systems and Doppler technology, providing detailed assessments of fetal and placental health.

We also maintain close coordination with the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and other specialty services, ensuring a seamless care pathway in case of early delivery or additional neonatal support.