Pregnancy Diary

There are four major blood types: A, B, AB, and O. On the surface of the red blood cells there is also a protein known as the Rh factor. If your blood has the Rh factor, then you are Rh-positive. If your blood does not have the Rh factor, then you are Rh-negative. While the Rh factor does not influence a person’s overall health, it can create problems during pregnancy. During your pregnancy, your healthcare provider will perform a simple blood test to check your blood type.

If you are Rh-negative and your baby’s father is Rh-positive, your baby may be Rh-positive. Many Rh-negative women develop antibodies to an Rh-positive baby. This can cause your body to respond as if it were allergic to your baby. If this happens, your antibodies may enter the placenta, attack your baby’s blood, and produce anemia.

In order to prevent problems, injection of Rh immunoglobulin, a blood product designed to prevent sensitization of an Rh-negative mother will be recommend by your healthcare provider. This treatment is only good for your current pregnancy. If you decide to have additional children, you may need a repeat dose of the Rh immunoglobulin.

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