Rhesus – Midwives Lelystad

The rhesus factor: what it means for you and your baby

In addition to all the preparations and checks, there is one specific test that is important: the rhesus test. In this blog we explain what the rhesus factor is, why it is tested during your pregnancy and what it means for you and your baby.

What is the rhesus factor?

During your pregnancy we examine your blood to not only determine your blood type, but also to look for the Rhesus factor. This is a protein that can be present on your red blood cells. If you have this protein, you are rhesus positive. This is the case for approximately 85% of people. If you do not have this protein, you are rhesus negative.

Why do we test the rhesus factor?

It is important to know whether you and your baby have the same rhesus factor. If you are rhesus negative and your baby is rhesus positive, this can lead to the formation of antibodies in your body. These antibodies can attack your baby's red blood cells, which is dangerous.

When are antibodies produced?

Your body does not immediately produce antibodies if your rhesus factor differs from that of your baby. This only happens when blood cells from the baby enter your bloodstream, which usually happens during delivery. In a first pregnancy this is usually not a problem for the baby, but it can cause complications in a subsequent pregnancy.

What is rhesus disease?

Rhesus disease occurs when your body breaks down the baby's red blood cells. This can lead to jaundice in the baby, in which the skin and eyes turn yellow due to a build-up of bilirubin, a waste product of the blood. In severe cases, special light therapy or even a blood transfusion for the baby is required.

Preventing rhesus disease

If you are rhesus negative, blood will be taken again in the 27th week of your pregnancy. This is to check if your baby is rhesus positive. If you are indeed rhesus negative and your baby is rhesus positive, you will receive a special injection around the 30th week, the rhesus injection, to prevent your body from producing antibodies. After the birth of your baby, you will receive this injection again within two days.

Important moments to contact us

It is crucial to contact your midwife immediately if you fall, especially if you fall on your stomach, or if you have had an accident. This can affect the rhesus factor and the health of your baby.

Resume

Understanding rhesus factor and its impact on your pregnancy is important. Through timely tests and treatments we can prevent any complications. Do you have questions or concerns about the rhesus factor or anything else related to your pregnancy? Please do not hesitate to contact us.