Houston Obstetrician Guides Family Through High-Risk Pregnancy to Safe Birth

After the heartbreaking loss of Eli, their first son, Kenna and Andrew Boettcher experienced the full spectrum of emotions when they learned they were expecting another baby boy. Three and a half months into this pregnancy, the family learned that this baby had gastroschisis, the same condition as Eli. Gastroschisis is a birth defect in which the baby’s intestines extend outside of the abdomen through a hole next to the belly button. Throughout their high-risk pregnancy, the Boettchers put their trust in Jerrie Refuerzo, MD, professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences and the Division of Fetal Intervention at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston; and director of the maternal care program at UTHealth Houston Fetal Center. As a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, Dr. Refuerzo works closely with a coordinated team at The Fetal Center to ensure safe prenatal care, delivery, and postnatal care for both mom and baby. Exactly one year after the passing of their first son, newborn Pierce Boettcher went home and is now growing and thriving. In the heart of the Texas Medical Center and across the state, UTHealth Houston is boldly committed to solving the greatest health challenges of our time through education, research, innovation, and excellence in patient care.