My doctor's office called me on Monday evening with the results of my blood work. My nurse told me that I am B negative. She explained that I will need to have a Rhogam Shot. I didn't know what that meant, so after we hung up, I looked it all up, and of course called my Mom to get more info.
Only about 15% of Caucasians are RH negative blood types. Typically, being Rh negative is not a health concern until pregnancy occurs or a blood transfusion is needed. Rh incompatibility is a mismatch between the blood of the mother and the blood of the baby and occurs when the mother is Rh negative and the baby is Rh positive. When Rh negative blood is exposed to Rh positive blood, the Rh negative blood responds by producing antibodies that attack and destroy the Rh positive blood cells. This can lead to problems such as anemia, kidney failure, etc. Rhogam shots prevent your immune system from attacking your baby’s blood. And protects against future pregnancies if you have a baby with a positive blood type.
After I deliver, our baby's blood will be tested and if it is positive I will then have a second Rhogam shot to prevent me from making antibodies against the positive blood.
We are learning so much about pregnancy and birth already!
You have a doctor that is really on the ball. Terrific!
ReplyDeleteI am O negative. Had to have the shots w all 3 of mine. I am just so flippin' excited about this experience for you & Josh!! You guys will be great parents. And it can't get much luckier than having a mid-wife for a Mom. :) I'm really happy I get to be a part of the whole thing reading your blog...what a smart idea!
ReplyDeleteThank you Nicki!! It's so much fun talking with you about baby stuff. You are such a knowledgeable Mom. It's fun sharing this excitement with you too. Thanks for all your support!!
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