By HFT Staff

Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware, hosted the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Institute for Maternal Fetal Health at Nemours Children’s. The Institute will expand the hospital’s maternal fetal health program to include Delaware’s first surgical fetal care center. 

The Institute for Maternal Fetal Health represents a comprehensive approach to supporting expectant patients who receive a complex diagnosis during pregnancy. The Institute’s new state-of-the-art facility in the Delaware Valley will improve maternal and neonatal outcomes by delivering advanced procedures and specialized capabilities in a single, integrated care environment dedicated to mother and baby.  

Under one roof, women can receive expert prenatal diagnosis, imaging and fetal treatments while pregnant, deliver their babies and get specialized newborn care after birth — ensuring that care feels coordinated, not overwhelming. 

This expansion significantly grows Nemours Children’s maternal fetal health program in the Delaware Valley, including a new Advanced Delivery Unit (ADU), Fetal Care Center, Psychosocial Support Program and the NICU extension — demonstrating Nemours Children’s Health’s deep commitment to the region’s families. The new Psychosocial Support Program is designed to support mental health and wellness for expectant parents and families during and after these unique pregnancies.  

A distinctive feature of the new facility is its integrated design, which keeps mothers and babies in close proximity throughout their care journey. After delivery, mothers are just steps away from their babies, even if their newborn needs care in the Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) or the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU).  

This closeness supports bonding, healing and peace of mind during what can be an overwhelming time for families. The space offers a sanctuary of calm to expectant mothers who may need to stay for extended periods of time. Each step of the design process took these expectant mothers’ needs into consideration as their physical and mental health is paramount during this often stressful time.