JAMMU: In a major boost to maternal and child healthcare in the region, AIIMS Jammu has started Maternal and Fetal Medicine (MFM) services, bringing advanced pregnancy care and fetal monitoring facilities to local patients for the first time.
Marking this milestone, doctors at AIIMS Jammu recently performed their first amniocentesis—an advanced prenatal diagnostic procedure—on a mother who had screened positive for Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21).
The procedure, performed by Dr. Vishakha Gupta (MFM Specialist) with support from Dr. Natasha Gupta and Dr. Shivani Sharma (Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology), confirmed normal results through follow-up genetic testing, providing relief to the family.
Amniocentesis, an ultrasound-guided test, involves collecting amniotic fluid for detecting genetic or chromosomal disorders like Down Syndrome. This advanced test, now available at AIIMS Jammu, was earlier not freely accessible to patients in the region.
Along with amniocentesis, the MFM unit offers specialized ultrasound scans, including NT-NB and Congenital Anomaly (TIFFA) scans, ensuring that expecting mothers in Jammu & Kashmir receive comprehensive pregnancy care locally without the need to travel outside the city.
Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Kumar Gupta, Executive Director & CEO, AIIMS Jammu, hailed the development as a “major milestone,” saying:
“Our goal has always been to provide world-class medical facilities to the people of Jammu & Kashmir and nearby areas. The launch of Maternal and Fetal Medicine services at AIIMS Jammu is another step in that direction. We are proud of our doctors, who are bringing hope and quality care to expecting mothers.”
With these services, AIIMS Jammu is fast emerging as a regional hub for advanced maternal and fetal care, delivering reassurance, modern diagnostics, and specialized treatment to families across J&K and neighboring states.
