Questions and Answers
What does it mean to be Rh negative?
Rh negative means that you do not have the Rh protein on your red blood cells.
Why is being Rh negative a problem?
Being Rh negative can cause the body to create antibodies against Rh positive blood, which can be harmful in pregnancy.
How can I prevent Rh sensitization?
You can prevent Rh sensitization by knowing the blood type of the biological father and monitoring for any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy.
What happens if RhoGAM is not given within 72 hours after an Rh+ baby is born?
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Study Notes
Rh Factor and Blood Types
- Rh factor refers to the Rhesus protein present on red blood cells.
- Individuals with the Rh protein are termed Rh positive (Rh+), while those without are Rh negative (Rh-).
Implications of Rh Negativity
- An Rh- body perceives Rh+ blood as foreign, producing antibodies that can attack Rh+ red blood cells.
- Incompatible pregnancies (Rh- mother with Rh+ baby) can lead to serious complications if fetal blood cells enter the mother's bloodstream.
- Risks arise during events like placental disturbances or childbirth, where maternal-fetal blood mixing can occur.
- Mother's antibodies can cross the placenta and harm the fetus, impacting future pregnancies if sensitization occurs.
Prevention of Rh Sensitization
- Determine the father's Rh status: An Rh- mother and father cannot have an Rh+ child.
- If the father is Rh+, there is at least a 50% chance of producing Rh+ offspring.
- Report any vaginal bleeding to healthcare providers promptly during pregnancy.
- Previous miscarriages may also pose a risk for sensitization, necessitating communication with care providers.
- Blood tests in early pregnancy can identify if sensitization has occurred.
RhoGAM® as a Preventive Measure
- RhoGAM is administered to Rh- mothers following any bleeding episodes in pregnancy or within 3 days post-delivery if an Rh+ baby is born.
- RhoGAM contains antibodies that target Rh+ blood cells, preventing the mother's immune response.
- The preventative effect is high when administered within 72 hours postpartum, reducing sensitization odds to 1.8%.
- Without RhoGAM, the likelihood of developing sensitization is around 16%.
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Description
Explore the essential concepts of Rh factor and its implications in pregnancy and blood transfusions through these informative flashcards. Understand the significance of being Rh negative and its potential complications.
