WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is Rh factor incompatibility? Rh (rhesus) factor incompatibility is a condition that occurs when a mother is Rh negative (Rh-) and her baby is Rh positive (Rh+). Rh factor is a protein found on red blood cells. You are Rh+ if you have this protein and Rh- if you do not have it. Rh incompatibility usually has little effect on your first pregnancy, but can cause problems with future pregnancies. What causes Rh factor incompatibility? If you are Rh- and have an Rh+ baby, your body may make antibodies (substances that protect the body from outside invaders) against the Rh protein. When you get pregnant again with an Rh+ baby, these antibodies will become active. An abnormal pregnancy, abortion, miscarriage, or abdominal injury can also make these antibodies active. These antibodies can cause serious problems in an unborn baby. What are the signs and symptoms of Rh factor incompatibility? There are no signs and symptoms that will tell you if you have Rh factor incompatibility. Your baby may have the following signs and symptoms when he is born: - Pale skin and mucous membranes (lining of the cheeks and gums)
- Limp and sleepy
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling in his face, arms, and legs
How is Rh factor incompatibility diagnosed? If you are Rh-, healthcare providers need to know if you have been pregnant before or if you have received a blood transfusion. The following tests may be done: - Blood tests: These check to see if you are Rh- or Rh+. The father's blood type and Rh factor may also be tested.
- Fetal blood sampling: This test may be done to check your baby's blood type and risk of anemia. Healthcare providers take a sample of your baby's blood from the umbilical cord. With an ultrasound to guide them, a needle is put through your skin, into your uterus, and into the umbilical cord.
- Ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to show pictures of your baby inside your uterus. Healthcare providers can learn the age of your baby and see how fast he is growing. The movement, heart rate, and other organs of your baby can be seen. Your placenta (tissue in the womb connecting the mother and baby) and amniotic fluid may be checked. A Doppler ultrasound may be used in place of an amniocentesis to see the blood flow in your baby's body. Healthcare providers may use this test to check if your baby has anemia.
How are Rh factor incompatibility problems treated? You will not need treatment for Rh incompatibility problems, but your baby might. He may need to be delivered early. He may also need any of the following: - Phototherapy: This is done to help reduce jaundice.
- Blood transfusions: Blood transfusions may be given through the umbilical cord and after birth to treat severe anemia.
- Immunoglobulins: This is an injection of antibodies to help reduce the destruction of red blood cells.
What are the risks of Rh factor incompatibility? If Rh immune globulin shots are not given, Rh antibodies may form and put your baby or next pregnancy at risk. Your baby may have severe anemia and need blood transfusions. This may cause bleeding, allergic reactions, or infections. Even with treatment, your baby may have brain damage. Rh incompatibility may be life-threatening to your baby. How can Rh factor incompatibility be prevented? Immune globulin (RhIg) shots may help reduce your risk. These shots prevent your body from making Rh antibodies. RhIg shots are usually given in the 28th week of pregnancy and within 72 hours after giving birth. You may need another shot if you have not given birth within 12 weeks after the first shot. RhIg shots may also be given after an abortion, miscarriage, or abdominal trauma. Shots are also given after any procedure that may cause your baby's blood to leak into your bloodstream. These procedures may include amniocentesis, fetal blood sampling, or a change in the baby's position in the womb before birth. Where can I find support and more information? - The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
P.O. Box 70620
Washington , DC 20024-9998
Phone: 1- 202 - 638-5577
Phone: 1- 800 - 673-8444
Web Address: http://www.acog.org
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - You have a fever.
- You have severe abdominal pain.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
When should I seek immediate care? - You feel your baby is moving less or is not moving at all.
- You have trauma, especially to your abdomen, even if you do not feel like you were hurt.
- You have heavy vaginal bleeding.
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