Anti-D

Anti-D immunoglobulin, also known as Rh immunoglobulin or Rhogam, is given to Rh-negative women during specific circumstances to prevent Rh isoimmunization, a condition in which the mother’s immune system produces antibodies against the Rh factor (Rh antigen) if she is exposed to Rh-positive blood. This condition can have serious consequences for future pregnancies if not managed properly.

Anti-D immunoglobulin is typically administered to Rh-negative women in the following situations:

  1. During Pregnancy (28/40):
    1. Anti-D is given to Rh-negative pregnant women around 28 weeks of gestation as a preventive measure. This dose helps prevent the formation of Rh antibodies if there is any fetal-maternal bleeding during pregnancy.
  2. After Delivery (if baby Rh +ve):
    1. If the baby is Rh-positive (inherited the Rh antigen from the Rh-positive father), Rh-negative mothers are given Anti-D within 72 hours after childbirth.
    2. This postpartum dose of Anti-D is administered to prevent sensitization to the Rh antigen in case there was any fetal-maternal blood mixing during delivery or if the mother experienced any complications that might lead to fetal-maternal bleeding.
  3. After Obstetric or Gynecologic Procedures:
    1. Anti-D may be given after certain obstetric or gynecologic procedures that can lead to fetal-maternal bleeding, such as amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling (CVS), external cephalic version, or any invasive procedures.
    2. The timing and necessity of Anti-D administration will depend on the specific circumstances and recommendations of the healthcare provider.
  4. After a Miscarriage Termination or Ectopic Pregnancy (past 12/40):
    1. Anti-D may be administered following a miscarriage, termination, ectopic pregnancy, D&C or any event where there is a risk of fetal-maternal bleeding or blood mixing.
    2. Anti-D is NOT required before 12 weeks unless recommended by a specialist.

It’s important for Rh-negative women to receive Anti-D at the appropriate times as recommended by their healthcare provider to prevent the development of Rh antibodies. Rh isoimmunization can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) in subsequent pregnancies, which can cause severe anemia and other complications in Rh-positive babies. Administering Anti-D at the right times helps protect both the current pregnancy and future pregnancies from these risks.