The Rh factor of a person is determined by the presence of specific proteins in his blood. And if a woman does not have such proteins, she belongs to the Rh negative group. This factor affects the course of pregnancy, therefore, tests for determining the Rh antigen are given by expectant mothers in the first place.
Instruction manual
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What is the Rhesus factor? Rhesus antigen or Rhesus factor is a protein located on the surface of red blood cells. It is curious that he got his name from the name of the breed of monkey, in which he was first identified by scientists. Rhesus antigen is inherited as the dominant sign, therefore, it is present in the majority of the world's population. But there are people who have Rh negative blood.
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According to statistics, only 15% of the population on the planet has Rh-negative blood. And if the future mother does not have a Rhesus antigen, a Rhesus conflict during pregnancy is possible. A specific protein determines the relationship between the pregnant woman and the fetus, but even with Rh-negative blood, it is likely that the bearing of the child will be successful and calm.
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Rhesus conflict during pregnancy can occur only when a woman has a negative Rhesus antigen, and a man has a positive. However, a conflict arises if the child inherits the Rh factor of the father. This parameter is indicated at 7-8 weeks of gestation. In the case when the fetus receives the rhesus antigen of the pope, it produces a reaction of the mother's body. The pregnant woman’s immune system will perceive the Rh-positive red blood cells of the baby as foreign. Accordingly, the development of Rhesus antibodies may begin in the mother. They are able to penetrate the placenta, damaging the blood cells of the fetus.
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Even with a predisposition to Rh conflict, there is practically no threat to pregnant women and their babies if the pregnancy is first. In the second pregnancy, complications are possible, because the mother’s blood will already have antigens.
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The presence of antibodies in the mother’s blood can cause not only Rh conflict, a complication of pregnancy can become a hemolytic disease of the child. Its course and overall availability depends on the quantity and class of antibodies produced by the pregnant body. And with Rh-negative blood of the future mother, doctors need to observe the increase or decrease in antibody titers. Often, with suspicion of a hemolytic disease, in addition to regular testing and monitoring a pregnant woman, additional ultrasound is prescribed. They will help control fetal development.
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If antibodies are detected, a mother may be prescribed non-specific supportive care. If there is a threat to the child, plasmapheresis may be prescribed. Also, with a Rh-negative status of a pregnant, doctors control the date of birth, because the situation can become dangerous in early or late birth.
