If you have Rh-negative blood type (A-, B-, O-, or AB-), you may have heard of Rh disease in pregnancy. This can occur when an Rh-negative mother is carrying an Rh-positive fetus. In this circumstance, the mother’s blood system produces abnormal antibodies that cross the placenta and attack the baby’s blood cells, leading to anemia or even stillbirth.
This disease can be prevented by treating all Rh-negative women during pregnancy with Rhogam, delivered by injection both at 28 weeks gestation and following delivery. It is important that all Rh-negative women receive Rhogam in the event of miscarriage, ectopic (tubal) pregnancy, or elective abortion.
What is Rhogam?
Rhogam is a purified antibody preparation that is made from human donors. Receiving Rhogam is NOT the same as receiving a blood transfusion. No cases of Hepatitis, HIV or other communicable diseases have been reported from Rhogam administration. The incidence of Rh disease in this country has dropped dramatically since the practice of routine Rhogam administration began. If you have further questions on this topic, please do not hesitate to discuss them with your provider.
When will I get my Rhogam injection?
Rh-negative mothers will receive an injection at their 28 week visit.