Rh disease and blood type problems in pregnancy

Overview

If an Rh-negative parent carries an Rh-positive baby, their body can make antibodies that attack the baby's red cells in later pregnancies.

A RhoGAM shot at 28 weeks and after birth prevents this.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Rh-negative blood type

Less common

• Baby anemia on ultrasound

Look up a symptom: Pregnant or recently gave birth · Yellow skin or eyes

When to get medical care

Causes

Blood type difference.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Blood type test:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Get RhoGAM when advised
• Know your blood type
• Get RhoGAM after miscarriage, bleeding, or procedures too

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an OB-GYN or midwife; high-risk pregnancies may see a maternal-fetal medicine doctor.

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Stay active in ways that feel good to you.
• Get enough sleep and manage stress.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Future pregnancies: Need monitoring if antibodies are present.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Prevention works very well.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Rh disease and blood type problems in pregnancy