Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR) in Abu Dhabi
Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR) in Abu Dhabi is managed through advanced hemodynamic surveillance at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital. Our subspecialists use high-resolution Doppler studies (umbilical artery, middle cerebral artery, and ductus venosus) to precisely time the delivery of small or growth-restricted babies.
Who This Page is For
Customized clinical pathways and insights to support our patients and referring medical partners.
Pregnant Patient
Mothers carrying a baby whose growth has slowed down or fallen below the 10th percentile.
Referring Doctor
Obstetricians referring for lag in symphysis-fundal height, estimated fetal weight (EFW) < 10th centile, or abnormal Dopplers.
Abnormal Screening
Patients with suspected early-onset or late-onset placental insufficiency.
Second Opinion
Parents wanting an expert, second-opinion assessment of fetal growth velocity and amniotic fluid volume.
When to see MFM
What we do
What happens during the visit
Thorough ultrasound assessment of fetal growth and multiple Doppler blood flows.
Calculation of risk and classification of FGR (Stage I to IV).
Creation of a customized surveillance schedule (ranging from weekly scans to daily checks).
Structured multidisciplinary delivery planning, optimizing steroid administration.
When urgent referral is needed
- Reduced or absent fetal movements.
- Vaginal bleeding or leakage of amniotic fluid.
- Severe headaches, visual disturbances, or upper abdominal pain in the mother (signs of pre-eclampsia).
Where the service is available
Available at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital, Abu Dhabi. We receive patients from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Ain, and other emirates.
Why Fetus.ae / Mediclinic MFM
Specialists Available
Explore each doctor’s qualifications, clinical interests and verified practice location.
Dr. Ali Al-Ibrahim
Head of Unit · Consultant Maternal–Fetal MedicineToronto fellowship training and more than 25 years of experience, bringing together fetal diagnosis, maternal medicine and coordinated care.
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Dr. Leanne Bricker
Consultant Maternal–Fetal MedicineExtensive experience in fetal therapy and complex multiple pregnancy, alongside international contributions to research and clinical guidance.
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Dr. Werner Diehl
Consultant Maternal–Fetal MedicineOur team’s most experienced fetal therapist, bringing broad expertise across fetal therapies, advanced fetal surgery and complex twin pregnancy.
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Dr. Soha Tohamy Said
Consultant Maternal–Fetal Medicine & Obstetrics and GynecologyMore than 28 years of clinical and leadership experience, with particular interests in maternal health and prevention of preterm birth.
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Dr. Gareth James Waring
Consultant Maternal–Fetal MedicineExtensive fetal therapy and surgery experience, alongside expertise in fetal heart conditions and prevention of preterm birth.
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Dr. Bernard Nasr
Consultant Obstetrics and Gynecology · Fetal MedicineTraining in France and Spain, with clinical interests in fetal therapy, growth problems and complex twin pregnancy.
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Dr. Marija Hadji Lega
Specialist Maternal–Fetal Medicine · Associate ProfessorMore than 25 years of clinical experience, combining advanced fetal imaging with academic teaching and clinical leadership.
View Full ProfileFrequently Asked Questions
Clinical answers directly from our specialists to help prepare you for your appointment.
FGR is a condition where a baby does not reach its genetically determined growth potential, usually due to placental dysfunction.
Small for Gestational Age (SGA) means the baby is small but healthy. FGR means the baby is small and shows signs of stress or poor placental blood flow.
We perform regular ultrasound scans to check growth, and use specialized Doppler tests to measure blood flow to the baby’s brain, liver, and placenta.
There is no cure for placental insufficiency. The primary treatment is close monitoring and delivering the baby when the risks of staying in the womb outweigh the risks of early birth.
Not necessarily. While many babies with FGR are delivered via C-section due to reduced tolerance for labor, vaginal birth is possible in mild cases under close monitoring.
Monitoring intervals depend on the severity of the FGR, ranging from every two weeks in mild cases to daily Doppler scans in severe cases.
Getting Here & Access
Our Abu Dhabi hub is at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital on Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street (Airport Road), a central location with dedicated on-site parking and step-free access. It is an easy drive from Khalifa City, Al Reem Island, Al Reef, Yas Island, Saadiyat and Mussafah, and roughly 60–75 minutes from Dubai via the E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road). Families travelling from Al Ain or the Western Region are seen by prior appointment so scans and consultations are completed in a single visit.
Insurance & Coverage
We work with major UAE insurers including Daman — including Thiqa and Daman Enhanced — as well as ADNIC, Nextcare, NAS and other networks. Coverage and pre-authorisation requirements vary by plan, so our team confirms your eligibility and arranges any approvals before your appointment. Self-pay packages are also available.
Areas We Serve
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Our Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists provide evidence-based assessment, clear counselling, and coordinated care.