The Maternal Medicine Network (MMN) aims to deliver equitable, high-quality pre-pregnancy, antenatal and postnatal care for all women with significant medical conditions, whether these pre-date pregnancy or arise during pregnancy or after delivery. This includes women receiving planned care as well as those presenting as emergencies. The MMN also provides education and support for healthcare professionals and service users.
The MMN is responsible for ensuring that all women with significant medical conditions across Northwest London receive timely access to specialist advice and care before, during and after pregnancy. All providers within the network agree and adhere to shared clinical protocols, including clear referral pathways for the management of medical conditions in pregnancy.
Most women with medical conditions in pregnancy will continue to be cared for within their local maternity services. The Maternal Medicine Centre (MMC) is Queen Charlotte’s and Chelsea Hospital (QCCH), part of Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, and provides specialist advice and care for the most complex and high-risk cases across all medical conditions, except complex congenital heart disease and cystic fibrosis.
Care for women with complex congenital heart disease and cystic fibrosis is provided by the specialist clinics at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, part of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, working closely with the Royal Brompton Hospital, part of Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust.
The level of care provided by the network is tailored to individual need, ensuring that investigations and management take place in the most appropriate setting according to the complexity of each woman’s condition.
