Blood Type Can Affect A Woman’s Pregnancy–Doctor

Medical doctors have confirmed that genotype of couples is not the only factor that needs to be considered to ensure that their children are not born with avoidable medical conditions.

Dr. Mfon Umoren of Right Care Hospital, Gauraka in Niger State, disclosed that a woman’s blood type could affect her fertility and influence her chances of having a safe delivery.

Dr Umoren told THE WHISTLER that “many people don’t know their blood type or Rh factor, but it’s important to know during pregnancy, as it can potentially affect the baby.”

What is the Rh factor?

Umoren explained that humans either have A, B, or AB blood groups but there’s another component referred to as the Rhesus factor which is either positive or negative.

“The Rh factor which is the sign attached to each of these groups is a protein found on the surface of your red blood cells but not everyone carries this protein.

“People who do carry the Rh protein have a blood type that is Rh-positive, (Rh+), and people who do not carry this protein have a blood type that is Rh-negative(Rh-) but the majority of people are Rh+. That’s why blood groups A+, B+, AB+, & O+ are quite common. Only a few people are Rh-”

Blood Group and Rhesus Compatibility

The doctor warned that ladies need to know if they are positive or negative.

“In a situation that she’s A- it will affect her delivery process and pregnancy

“if a Rhesus negative woman is pregnant for a Rhesus Positive man and there is a 50% chance that the newborn will be born with a disease called hemolytic(the rupturing of red blood cells)

“The husband will introduce the Positive rhesus factor into the formation of the child and once sensitized the Rh- woman’s body can make antibodies against the Rh+ blood which it considers as foreign.”

According to Umoren, these antibodies will likely not cause problems during your first pregnancy but will affect the system, waiting for the next pregnancy from an Rh+ man.

“As soon as you’re pregnant again, the antibodies will match across the placenta and attack your baby’s red blood cells making them die.”

How it can be prevented

No need to fear because the good news is that Rhesus incompatibility can be prevented..

Dr. Umoren said to prevent this medical issue, women that are Rh- have to take a Rhesus ISO Immunization during any form of delivery, most especially on their first pregnancy.

“Whether it is normal delivery or a Caesarian section , miscarage or an abortion, this injection needs to be adminitered because this condition arises usually from the second child.

“But if this injection is not taken and she takes it in for the next child the mothers blood cells can attack the growing child and kill the child.”

He however advised women to begin their antenatal care early so the doctors will check their Rhesus status and know what to do on time.