Rhesus (Rh) Factor and Pregnancy

*What Is the Rh Factor?*

The Rh factor is a protein found in red blood cells.

If you have the protein, you are Rh-positive

If you do not have the protein, you are Rh-negative

That is why we check your blood group and Rh factor early in pregnancy.

*What Is Rh Incompatibility?*

Rh incompatibility happens when:

The mother is Rh-negative, and

The baby is Rh-positive. This happens when a baby inherits the Rh- positive factor from his Rh-positive father.

This difference can sometimes affect the baby’s blood.

*Why Should We Care?*

If Rh incompatibility is not prevented, it can cause:

Low blood level (anaemia) in the baby.

Yellow eyes and skin (jaundice)

In severe cases, damage to important organs

👉 It does NOT affect the mother. It affects the baby.

*Does It Affect the First Pregnancy?*

Most times, no.

Problems usually happen in later pregnancies if the mother has already developed antibodies.

The mother and baby’s blood can mix in certain conditions including:-

Blood can mix during:

Childbirth

Miscarriage or abortion

Bleeding in pregnancy

Certain tests like amniocentesis

Injury to the stomach

Turning the baby before delivery

When this happens, the mother’s body may form antibodies.

*How Do We Prevent Rh Problems?*

We use an injection called RhoGAM (Anti-D injection).

It helps to protect this baby and future pregnancies.

It is given:

At 28 weeks of pregnancy.

Within 72 hours after delivery (if baby is Rh-positive).

Extra doses may be needed after bleeding or miscarriage.

*What If Antibodies Are Already Present?*

The pregnancy will be monitored closely.

Ultrasound scans will be done.

Severe cases are rare because of early care.

*Key Messages for Mothers*

✔ Know your blood group and Rh status

✔ Start antenatal care early

✔ Take your Anti-D injection when advised

✔ Follow up regularly at the clinic

*Conclusion*

With proper antenatal care and the right treatment, Rh incompatibility can be prevented, and babies can be born healthy.

Thank you.

If you have any questions, please ask.