The moments following a positive pregnancy test can be a very emotional process. Initially, you may have only had to cope with the suspicion of an unexpected pregnancy. But receiving confirmation of one may have opened you up to feelings of shock, confusion, anger, and fear. As you’ve come to terms with your situation, you’ve probably realized that you’re also facing a choice for abortion, adoption or parenting. Knowing this fact and experiencing these emotions probably feels overwhelming enough! But your circumstances are bound to involve additional medical and biological factors that are important to be aware of as you move forward. The Rh factor is one such consideration. In this blog, we’ll explore what that is and why it matters- no matter which pregnancy option you decide to pursue.
If you’re experiencing an unexpected pregnancy, consider reaching out to Avenue Women’s Center! We’re a limited medical clinic that offers free and confidential first-step pregnancy services. Our caring, expert staff understands that medical information can sometimes be confusing and difficult to process on top of everything else that you’re facing. We’re here to help make the fact-finding process efficient and approachable. Avenue offers accurate information with the goal of helping women feel knowledgeable and confident, rather than confused and overwhelmed.
Contact Avenue Women’s Center today to learn more!
What is the Rh Factor?
If you have ever had your blood type identified medically, you know that your blood is in one of the following categories: A, B, AB, or O. After the identifying letter, there is also a (+) or (-). Most simply defined, Rh factor is about the (+) or (-). It refers to a type of protein on the surface of red blood cells. Most people inherit the Rh factor (have the protein, and therefore have the (+) after the letter of their blood type). These individuals are Rh positive. People who don’t have this protein are considered Rh negative (Mayo Clinic).
What Does This Have to do With My Pregnancy?
As Mayo Clinic indicates, being Rh negative is not a sickness, and it typically doesn’t impact a person’s health. However, complications can arise during pregnancy if a woman is Rh negative and her pregnancy is Rh positive. This is called Rh incompatibility. (If it’s the reverse, or if the (+) or (-) is consistent between the woman and the pregnancy, this would not be a concern). The problem with Rh incompatibility is this: If the woman’s blood comes into contact with the blood of the pregnancy, her body will recognize the fetal blood type as different than hers, and will produce antibodies to attack it. This can cause significant health concerns for the pregnancy. (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)). The woman’s blood and the pregnancy’s blood wouldn’t normally mix. However, there are several scenarios in which this could occur:
- In the case of a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy located outside of the uterus) (Mayo Clinic).
- During an abortion (Mayo Clinic).
- During labor and delivery, or if a fetus is moved into a different position before birth (ACOG).
- If cells are removed from the fetal sac or placenta for testing (ACOG).
- If bleeding takes place during pregnancy (ACOG).
- If the woman experiences an abdominal injury during pregnancy (ACOG).
What If I’m Considering Abortion Anyways?
It’s important to note that untreated Rh incompatibility can have long-term, adverse effects on a woman, regardless of her pregnancy decision. According to ACOG, “Health problems usually do not occur during an Rh-negative woman’s first pregnancy with an Rh-positive fetus… because her body does not have a chance to develop a lot of antibodies.” However, If she doesn’t receive care and later becomes pregnant with another Rh positive fetus, her body could produce more antibodies, which could harm the new pregnancy Even if a Rh negative woman has a miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or abortion, her system can continue to make antibodies afterwards, putting a potential future pregnancy at risk (ACOG).
How is Rh Incompatibility Treated?
A qualified medical professional can assess if you’re Rh negative early on in your pregnancy by providing a simple blood test. If Rh incompatibility is a concern, medication can be prescribed (Rh Immunoglobulin) to prevent the development of antibodies. Testing can also be provided to evaluate how many antibodies are already in your system (ACOG). According to Mayo Clinic, “If the antibody screen shows that you’re already producing antibodies, an injection of Rh immune globulin won’t help.” The pregnancy would need to be closely monitored in this situation, and the baby may be given a blood transfusion if necessary.
*If you have any other questions or concerns about your pregnancy, the Rh factor, and its effects, consider scheduling an appointment with your doctor to gather more information.
Do you still have questions about your unexpected pregnancy and your available options? Avenue Women’s Center has been serving individuals, couples, and families since 1981, and we’d love to be a part of your support network too. When you reach out, you’ll have an opportunity to meet with one of our expert pregnancy consultants and receive reliable information about all your pregnancy options. We’re here to answer your objective questions, and to help you work through the more difficult, subjective questions (the ones that only you can answer).
Reach out for a private, confidential pregnancy consultation! We have five convenient locations in the Chicagoland area.
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References:
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2024, September). FAQs: The Rh Factor: How It Can Affect Your Pregnancy. Retrieved from: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/The-Rh-Factor-How-It-Can-Affect-Your-Pregnancy?
Reviewed by Patricia Kuenzi, APN-CNP, MSN, ANP, PNP.
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.