Rh factor (Rhesus factor) is a protein in red blood cells exteriors.
Every person is either Rh-positive or Rh-negative. However, the problem occurs when an Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive foetus. This is known as Rh incompatibility. Let us understand the causes of Rh incompatibility.
What Causes RH Incompatibility?
When an Rh-negative woman gets pregnant with an Rh-positive foetus, it is called Rh incompatibility. Your immune system identifies this difference (incompatibility) and creates antibodies. These antibodies find the red blood cells of the foetus as foreign objects. Thus, they fight against those cells. This process is called Rh sensitisation. It is essential to consult your pregnancy care provider to help you prevent this condition with an injection of immune globulin.
During pregnancy, the mother’s blood doesn’t mix with that of the foetus. However, some amount of blood from the foetus mixes with the mother’s blood during labour and delivery. This condition holds true for both vaginal and caesarean deliveries.
Rh incompatibility causes complications during tests like amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling. Incompatibility can also occur if the mother undergoes any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy or sustains any injury in the abdomen.
The causes of Rhesus incompatibility also include cases of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
Conclusion
Ensure you check your Rh status before or during pregnancy to prevent potential complications. Your pregnancy care provider can determine your Rh factor through a simple blood test. An appropriate health insurance policy will assist in covering the costs associated with addressing this issue, as well as other conditions during pregnancy, ensuring access to high-quality and affordable healthcare.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.