Antenatal Screen for Rh Antibodies

Specimen Required

EDTA And Clotted Blood

Fasting Required

Purpose of the Antenatal Screen for Rh Antibodies Test

The Rh factor is a protein found on the surface of red blood cells. If a woman is Rh-negative and her partner is Rh-positive, there is a risk that their baby may inherit the Rh factor from the father, leading to a condition known as Rh disease or hemolytic disease of the newborn. This can cause severe anemia, jaundice, and other complications in the baby. Antenatal screening for Rh antibodies is performed to detect the presence of Rh antibodies in the mother’s blood, allowing for early intervention and treatment to prevent or reduce the severity of Rh disease in the baby.

When this Antenatal Screen for Rh Antibodies test is required

Antenatal screening for Rh antibodies is typically requested during the first trimester of pregnancy, usually around the 8th to 12th week of pregnancy. It may also be requested later in pregnancy if the mother has had a previous pregnancy affected by Rh disease or if there is a high risk of Rh sensitization.

What the Antenatal Screen for Rh Antibodies Test Detects

The antenatal screening for Rh antibodies test looks for the presence of Rh antibodies in the mother’s blood. These antibodies develop in response to exposure to Rh-positive red blood cells, such as during a previous pregnancy or blood transfusion.

Preparation for the Antenatal Screen for Rh Antibodies Test

There is typically no specific preparation required for the antenatal screening for Rh antibodies. However, your healthcare provider may provide specific instructions, such as avoiding certain medications that may affect the test results.

Sample Requirements

The test requires a blood sample, usually taken from a vein in the arm.

Additional Notes

If Rh antibodies are detected during antenatal screening, further testing may be necessary to determine the severity of the condition and the appropriate course of treatment. Treatment may include administration of Rh immunoglobulin to prevent Rh sensitization, close monitoring of the pregnancy, and early delivery or other interventions if necessary.

Selected Tests