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| AIIMS Jammu to Open Advanced Unit for Safer Pregnancies and Healthier Babies | | | Early Times Report
Jammu, May 24: AIIMS Jammu is set to enhance maternal and child healthcare services in the region with the upcoming launch of a dedicated Maternal and Fetal Medicine (MFM) unit. This specialized unit, operating within the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, will offer expert care for mothers and their unborn babies, particularly during complicated pregnancies. The initiative marks a significant advancement for healthcare in Jammu and Kashmir, as AIIMS Jammu joins a select group of hospitals in India providing such
comprehensive MFM services.
Maternal and Fetal Medicine specialists are doctors with advanced training focused on the health of both the mother and the developing baby during pregnancy. They use specialized knowledge and technology to monitor pregnancies closely, especially when there are existing health concerns for the mother, if she is expecting multiple babies, or if there’s a possibility of a health issue with the baby. Their goal is to identify and manage potential problems as early as possible.
The new MFM unit at AIIMS Jammu will concentrate on the early screening and proactive management of significant pregnancy complications. This includes careful screening for conditions like pre-eclampsia, a serious issue involving high blood pressure in pregnant women through early checks and specialized ultrasound scans. This allows for timely steps to protect both mother and baby.
Another key area will be addressing Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR), where a baby may not be growing at the expected rate inside the womb and Preterm labour (giving birth too early). The unit will also screen the women who might be at risk of FGR and preterm labour through ultrasound which helps doctors to keep a close watch on the baby’s development and offer required intervention.
The new MFM unit at AIIMS Jammu will offer a range of important services aimed at early detection and care. An important early ultrasound, often called the Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan, is typically performed between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. This scan helps in the early screening for certain chromosomal conditions and provides an initial assessment of the baby’s well-being. Later in pregnancy, usually between 18 and 22 weeks, a detailed ultrasound known as the anomaly scan is conducted. This is a thorough examination of the baby, looking closely at all developing organs and structures to check for any physical or developmental issues.
A vital aspect of the unit’s advanced care will be its close collaboration with AIIMS Jammu’s recently established Centre for Advanced Genomics & Precision Medicine. This partnership is particularly important when initial screenings or scans suggest a higher possibility of a genetic condition in the baby. It allows for highly specialized genetic testing, offering families more precise information and helping doctors tailor care
If initial screening tests indicate a higher chance of a genetic condition, the MFM specialists will discuss further diagnostic testing options with the parents to get more definitive answers. One such test is Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS), which usually takes place between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy and involves carefully taking a tiny sample of the placenta for genetic analysis.
Another option, typically offered after 15 weeks of pregnancy, is Amniocentesis. This procedure involves taking a small sample of the amniotic fluid – the water surrounding the baby – which contains cells from the baby that can be tested for genetic information. These specialized tests, when necessary, empower parents with knowledge and help doctors plan the best course of care.
Dr. Vishakha Gupta, a Maternal and Fetal Medicine specialist at AIIMS Jammu, shared her enthusiasm: “With this new MFM unit, our aim is to bring comprehensive, world-class care to the families of Jammu and Kashmir under one roof. Expectant mothers will have access to advanced ultrasound scans for a detailed look at their baby’s health, alongside early screening for conditions like pre-eclampsia and growth issues. Our collaboration with the genomics team will be invaluable in providing precise information and support to families when there are concerns about fetal development. We are dedicated to guiding and supporting them throughout their pregnancy journey.”
Prof (Dr) Shakti Kumar Gupta, Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Jammu, emphasized the importance of this development: “AIIMS Jammu is committed to providing the highest standard of healthcare. This Maternal and Fetal Medicine unit, particularly with its linkage to our advanced genomics centre, represents a significant step forward. It will enable us to address complex pregnancy issues with greater precision, offering advanced and personalized care that is not widely available. We believe this will make a substantial difference in ensuring more healthy mothers and healthy babies in our region.”
The launch of this new MFM unit at AIIMS Jammu, combining expert fetal care with the insights of modern genomic medicine, promises a brighter and healthier future for expectant mothers and their babies in Jammu and Kashmir.
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