XV Diploma in Fetal Medicine

The recent development of fetal medicine has been explosive. In addition to classic diagnostic and screening modalities such as high-resolution ultrasound and Doppler, magnetic resonance imaging and increasingly informative molecular studies such as microarrays and exome sequencing have been added. Opportunities for fetal therapy have also broadened significantly, including not only transfusions and shunts but also fetoscopic treatments and open fetal surgery for the correction of fetal pathologies associated with high perinatal morbidity and mortality. This rapid information overload has necessitated that the mother-fetus dyad be managed not by an individual physician, but by a multidisciplinary team capable of anticipating complications and advising parents with up-to-date information when a risk factor or fetal pathology arises.

All this wealth of techniques and knowledge can be overwhelming for the obstetrician, whose training has historically focused on the clinical management of pregnancy and the surgical management of childbirth. It can also be a challenge for the radiologist, for whom simply describing the findings provided by the various available technologies is no longer sufficient. They are increasingly compelled to delve into pathophysiological interpretation to participate in the comprehensive management of these patients. Finally, for the neonatologist, the geneticist, and the pediatric surgeon, understanding the phenomena that begin months before birth in embryo-fetal life has become an indispensable requirement for their increasingly complex clinical practice. And meanwhile, the exponential advances in molecular biology are not sparing any of these specialties.

In countries of the Northern Hemisphere, subspecialty programs in Maternal-Fetal Medicine have existed for several years as an academic response for specialists interested in deepening their knowledge of perinatal issues. In our country, there is a notable lack of this comprehensive training.

Taking this need into account and relying on our 10 years of experience as a reference center in perinatal research and teaching, in 2017 we raised the bar in our educational offer with this new Diploma in Fetal Medicine (DMF).

It is structured as a modular program that the student can take simultaneously or consecutively with certifications at each stage to obtain the Diploma when all modules have been completed.

These are: 1) Annual Fetal Medicine Course (CAMF) (161 lecture hours): This course has become a classic for specialists interested in obtaining the most comprehensive and up-to-date information on the various subdisciplines involved in Fetal Medicine. The course covers topics such as Perinatal Genetics, Fetal Dysmorphology, Intrauterine Therapy, Prenatal Screening, Invasive Procedures, Placental Dysfunction, Congenital Infections, Fetal Hematology, Prematurity, and Multiple Pregnancy (see Program below). The methodology alternates between the presentation of real cases and the review of the latest evidence published in the literature, as well as research conducted by the UMF-HUA. Classes are held one Saturday every two weeks, in the morning, between March and December.

2) Advanced CAMF (72 lecture hours): This new module is aimed at specialists interested in delving deeper than the CAMF curriculum. It includes concepts in practical embryology, fetal magnetic resonance imaging, perinatal genetics, pediatric surgery, neonatology, high-risk obstetrics, and research in placental dysfunction, neurodevelopment, and fetal cardiology. Classes are held one Friday every two weeks (coordinated with CAMF) in the afternoon, between April and December.

3) CAMF Practical (120 lecture hours): This consists of an intensive 2-week rotation in which the student observes the daily work in a Level IV Fetal Medicine Unit. This module helps put into practice everything learned at the CAMF (Center for Maternal and Fetal Medicine), both in terms of implementing a screening program for gestational complications and in the evaluation, counseling, and management of complex cases of maternal-fetal pathology. The rotating physician also participates in the Weekly Multidisciplinary Meetings, in which cases are presented and the pre- and postnatal evolution of pathological cases is discussed, including the participation of the departments of Obstetrics, Fetal Medicine, Neonatology, Cardiology, Cardiovascular Surgery, Pediatric Surgery, Neurosurgery, Urology, Genetics, and Mental Health.

4) International Certifications from the Fetal Medicine Foundation (17 hours of lectures): The Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF), founded by Professor K Nicolaides and based in London, UK, is one of the world's leading institutions in training, certification, auditing, and research in Fetal Medicine. To obtain the DMF certification, one must have obtained the following Fetal Medicine Foundation Certificates of Competence:

• First trimester (with current certification in NT, HN, TR, DV, Ut) • Doppler Ultrasound (with approved images) • Cervical Assessment (with approved images) • Fetal abnormalities (with approved images and practical exam) • Preeclampsia screening • Basic fetal echocardiography • Fetal cardiac scanning • Fetal Cardiac Defects As the only Official FMF Auditing Center in Argentina, we perform the practical evaluation that is part of the Certificate of Competence in Morphological Ultrasound, as well as advice for the rest of the Certifications.

5) Fetal Medicine Examination: It is a written exam (50 multiple-choice questions) that covers all the relevant aspects that the Fetal Medicine Specialist must handle.

• • CAMF B (Basic) Start Date: March 30
  • CAMF A (Advanced) Start Date: April 20
  • CAMF C Start (Practical): requirements in the section +PRACTICAL CAMF INFORMATION (See available dates).
  • Official Certificate – Digital Format.
  • International Certification: Please check requirements.
  • Final Exam Diploma in Fetal Medicine: to confirm

Aimed at:

• Medical specialists in obstetrics and gynecology, neonatology, diagnostic imaging, medical genetics, pediatric surgery, and general medicine.
• Resident physicians in these specialties.

• ANNUAL FETAL MEDICINE COURSE (CAMF B)

   

  Destined to:

  • Medical specialists in obstetrics and gynecology, neonatology, diagnostic imaging, medical genetics, and pediatric surgery.
  • Resident physicians in the final year of these specialties.

   

  Course duration:

  • Lecture hours: 180 hours | Virtual.

  Registration: Contact a sales advisor to begin the registration process.

   

  Objectives:

  • Learn to apply a systematic population screening strategy for the identification of pregnancies with increased risk of maternal-fetal pathology.
  • Review the latest evidence on multiparametric first trimester screening.
  • Observe the methodology for the evaluation of the different ultrasound and biochemical markers for chromosomal abnormality screening.
  • Evaluate the latest advances in invasive and non-invasive prenatal diagnosis.
  • Review the latest evidence on screening for early preeclampsia in the first, second, and third trimesters. Review preventive options for placental dysfunction.
  • To characterize fetal growth disorders and their perinatal management.
  • Systematize the detailed anatomical exploration of the first and second trimesters aimed at identifying structural defects.
  • Gain up-to-date knowledge on the diagnosis, prenatal management and prognosis of the most frequent structural defects classified by organ system.
  • Focus on the poly malformed fetus with a syndrome-based approach.
  • Describe the currently available prenatal treatments and critically evaluate their risks and benefits.
  • To learn about new diagnostic technologies in the field of imaging and laboratory.
  • To study the impact of premature birth and the different current strategies for its prediction and prevention.
  • To understand the most common hematological, immunological, and infectious disorders that can affect the fetus and the therapeutic options.
  • To have knowledge about the postnatal medical and surgical management of the malformed fetus and the extremely premature infant.
  • To address the current problems of specific complications of multiple pregnancy.
  • Discuss the bioethical dilemmas faced by the perinatal team.

   

  Methodology

  • The course will cover in detail the most relevant maternal-fetal pathologies encountered by the perinatal team through the presentation of clinical cases with videos of fetal ultrasounds and MRIs. Growth charts and fetoplacental flowmetry will be studied.
  • The most recent scientific evidence on perinatal management and the prognosis of each pathology will then be discussed.
  • The topics will be discussed in groups.
  • Students will receive study materials and relevant bibliography (in English) on the topics discussed through the University's virtual platform.
  • Basic knowledge of English and computer skills is recommended.

   

  PROGRAM**: 

  View Full Program 2026

  **: Preliminary program subject to revisions and modifications without prior notice.

Destined to:

• Medical specialists in obstetrics and gynecology, neonatology, diagnostic imaging, medical genetics, and pediatric surgery who are currently training or have completed training at CAMF.
• Final year residents in these specialties who are currently completing or have completed the CAMF.

Course duration:

• Lecture hours: 180 hours | Virtual.

Registration: Contact a sales advisor to begin the registration process.

Description

• This module can be taken simultaneously with the CAMF course or once it has been completed in previous years.
• The design of its contents is geared towards deepening relevant subjects in the study and understanding of Perinatal Medicine, such as: applied embryology, prenatal genetics, fetal resonance, postnatal surgery, neonatology, evidence-based obstetrics and fetal programming.
• Specialists dedicated to the postnatal care of newborns with congenital pathology will participate and share their experience.

PROGRAM**:

See full program with CAMF dates to 2026

**: Preliminary program subject to revisions and modifications without prior notice.

CAMF Practical (160 hours | In-person): This intensive two-week rotation allows students to observe the daily work in a Level IV Fetal Medicine Unit. This module helps students put into practice everything they have learned at the CAMF (Center for Maternal and Fetal Medicine), both in terms of implementing a screening program for gestational complications and in the evaluation, counseling, and management of complex maternal-fetal pathology cases. The rotating physician also participates in weekly multidisciplinary meetings where cases are presented and the pre- and postnatal evolution of pathological cases is discussed, including the participation of the departments of Obstetrics, Fetal Medicine, Neonatology, Cardiology, Cardiovascular Surgery, Pediatric Surgery, Neurosurgery, Urology, Genetics, and Mental Health.

To be able to take the CAMF Practical course, it is an essential requirement to have completed CAMF Basic and CAMF Advanced.

Fetal medicine rotation requirements 

basic CAMF: View Full Program 2026

The requirement to be able to take the final exam is that candidates submit the certificates, in PDF format, of:

• CAMF B (Basic)
• CAMF A (Advanced)
• Rotation at UMF-HUA (CAMF Practical)
• Fetal Medicine Foundation Certificates:
  • First trimester (with current certification in TN, HN, TR, DV, Ut).
  • Doppler ultrasound (with approved images).
  • Cervical assessment (with approved images).
  • Fetal abnormalities (with approved images) – With the approval of the Logbook. 
  • Preeclampsia screening.
  • Basic fetal echocardiography – Attendance certificate.
  • Fetal cardiac scanning- Attendance certificate.
  • Fetal cardiac defects- Certificate of attendance.

The registration period for the 2025 final exam is to be determined. Registration for the exam will be confirmed to those who meet the requirements once their eligibility has been verified.

The exam will consist of 50 multiple-choice questions and will be carried out through the virtual platform of the Universidad AustralIt will be passed with 60% correct answers. Graduates have 3 opportunities to take the exam within 4 years of completing the Advanced CAMF course.

Equivalencies for the Practical CAMF of the Diploma in Fetal Medicine:

International Certifications:

• Diploma in Fetal Medicine from the Fetal Medicine Foundation: submit documentation and take the final exam.
• Fellowship or Virtual Fellowship in Fetal Medicine Barcelona: submit documentation, have FMF certifications and take the final exam.
• Complete Fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine accredited by the Society of Maternal-Fetal Medicine (USA): send FMF documentation and certifications.
• Full Fellowship in Fetal Medicine Universidad Austral (2 years): Complete CAMF Advanced and take the final exam.
• Complete Fellowship in Fetal Medicine at another institution (2 years): submit documentation, complete CAMF, Advanced CAMF, FMF certifications and take the final exam.
• Complete Fellowship in Diagnostic Imaging or Genetics at another institution (2 years): submit documentation, CAMF, Advanced CAMF, FMF certifications and take the final exam.
• Complete Observership (2 or more weeks) at a recognized center abroad (for example: FMF or Fetal Medicine Barcelona): send documentation, CAMF, Advanced CAMF, FMF certifications and take the final exam.

• • Official Certificate – Digital Format

  Diploma courses are not considered degrees but courses and, therefore, do not issue degrees but certificates (DNGU. DOCUS N°3. Inc.12).

Dear Postgraduate Participant, we would like to inform you of the latest updates regarding the tuition policies for our undergraduate and postgraduate programs:

Due to the complex economic situation in Argentina, the tuition fees for our programs and degrees are adjusted periodically. This is to preserve the academic quality that underpins our value proposition and to meet the University's commitments and obligations. These increases will be based on indicators reported by the Central Bank of Argentina.

Once again, we appreciate the trust you have placed in our University and renew our commitment to providing you with the highest level of training and professional development.

• Payment Policies: The participant must pay or confirm their payment method and/or fee at least 72 hours prior to the start of the activity through the means mentioned in the FEES section.
  • Duty: Accepted payment methods: VISA, Mastercard and American Express debit and credit cards, Decidir and Mercado Pago.
  • Due to current regulations, the Faculty of Biomedical Sciences cannot receive cash. For this reason, only electronic payment methods will be accepted during activity accreditation.
• Cancellation policy prior to the start of the course: Cancellations must be made at least 96 hours in advance through a formal channel by sending an email to posgradofcb@austral.edu.ar placing in the subject WITHDRAWAL REQUEST – “Name of Course/Activity” (In the body of the message, you must include your personal information: name and surname, ID number).
• Cancellation policy during the course (not applicable to short courses): The participant must send an email to posgradofcb@austral.edu.ar with the subject line "Withdrawal Request" – "Course/Activity Name" (include your personal information in the body of the message: first and last name, ID). The withdrawal must be sent between the 1st and 10th of the current month. The corresponding fee will be billed and debited starting on the 11th.

• Refund Policy: If you do not participate in the program and/or activity, and do not process the corresponding withdrawal request in a timely manner, no refund requests will be accepted.

• Tuition refund policy: The registration fee serves as a deposit to reserve a place and is non-refundable once paid. If you request to withdraw, your enrollment status for that activity during the current academic period will be considered.

• Partial refund policy: In the event that the student/participant has made the full payment for the course in advance or has made advance payments through open plans:

1. If the activity has not started: You will be able to recover 100% of the advance payments at the current value at the time of payment, less 5% for administrative expenses.
2. If the activity started and progressed to 30% of the total course time: 50% of the advance payments will be refunded at the current value at the time of payment, less 5% for administrative expenses.
3. If the activity progressed more than 30% of the total course time: Advance payments will not be refunded.

• Replacement policy: If the registered person is unable to participate in the program and with prior notice of at least 96 hours before the date of the event, they may transfer their participation to a third party.
• Activities that grant a certificate of participation: The minimum required attendance of 70% of the academic program, its activities, and administrative debt must be met to request the corresponding certification.
• The discounts/promotions offered cannot be combined.
• The opening of the program or course is subject to the number of students enrolled at the time of its start.
• Procurement policies do not apply to non-tariff activities.

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