These antigens can cross the placenta and will attack your baby, treating it as if it were an invader instead of a welcomed guest for nine months. This attack on your fetus can result in hemolytic anemia, brain damage and death.

This sounds scary, but as long as you get your blood tested and screened for Rh factor, you’re on your way to a healthy pregnancy. If there is an Rh factor problem, your doctor will monitor your health and your baby’s closely. There is an injection your can receive that gives your body immunity before sensitization takes place. Called Rho (D) immune globulin, these injections are given in two parts, the first around week 28 and the second at least 72 hours after delivery. You may also receive a dose if you have amniocentesis testing or experience bleeding during pregnancy.

If you do develop antibodies toward your baby’s blood, there are measures your doctor can take, such as blood transfusions while your baby is still in your uterus. If this is your first pregnancy, you have little to worry about. Rh factor becomes more of a problem during subsequent pregnancies. In any case, go get your blood tested promptly so your doctor can have the results. Knowing the results will prepare you or set your mind at ease so you can have a healthy baby in your arms soon.