The Rhesus (Rh) factor is an inherited protein found on the surface of red blood cells. People can be either Rh-positive (Rh+) or Rh-negative (Rh-), depending on whether they have this protein or not.
When an Rh-negative woman is pregnant with an Rh-positive baby, it can lead to a condition called Rh incompatibility. This occurs when the mother’s immune system recognizes the Rh-positive cells of the baby as foreign and produces antibodies against them.
During the first pregnancy, this is usually not a problem. However, in subsequent pregnancies, these antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the baby’s red blood cells, leading to a potentially serious condition called Rh disease. Rh disease can cause anemia, brain damage, and even fetal death if left untreated.
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To prevent Rh disease, expectant mothers are routinely tested for their Rh factor. If an Rh-negative mother is carrying an Rh-positive baby, she can receive an injection of Rh immunoglobulin (RhIg) during pregnancy and after delivery to suppress her immune response and prevent the formation of antibodies. This treatment is highly effective and allows Rh-negative mothers to have healthy Rh-positive babies.
Knowing one’s Rh factor, along with other important factors such as blood type and genotype, is crucial for expectant mothers to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.
By understanding and managing Rh incompatibility, healthcare providers can help prevent the potentially serious complications associated with Rh disease