By Ginika Oguji
A midwife at Comprehensive Medical Centre (CMC), Awkuzu, Mrs Ifunanya Nwachukwu, has advised pregnant women and their partners to know their blood groups and rhesus (Rh) status, warning that Rh incompatibility can pose risks in subsequent pregnancies if the mother becomes sensitised.
Mrs. Nwachukwu gave the advice on Sept. 16, while educating expectant mothers during the hospital’s weekly antenatal care class. According to her, couples should undergo blood-group and Rh testing, particularly because complications may occur when an Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive baby.
She explained that Rh incompatibility may arise when a mother is Rh-negative and the father is Rh-positive, making it possible for the couple to have an Rh-positive baby.
The midwife said an Rh-negative mother could become sensitised when her blood comes into contact with Rh-positive blood from her baby, particularly during pregnancy, delivery or certain pregnancy-related events.
She explained that following sensitisation, the mother’s body could produce antibodies against Rh-positive red blood cells. While this may not cause significant problems in the initial pregnancy, the antibodies can persist and affect a subsequent pregnancy if the next baby is Rh-positive.
Mrs. Nwachukwu noted that the antibodies can cross the placenta and destroy the baby’s red blood cells, potentially leading to anaemia and other complications.
She, however, clarified that blood-group or Rh incompatibility does not mean that a woman will automatically experience complications after her first delivery, stressing that the major concern is Rh sensitisation and its possible effect on a subsequent Rh-positive pregnancy.
She therefore urged pregnant women to register for antenatal care early and undergo all recommended tests. She also advised women who are found to be Rh-negative to consult their healthcare providers about appropriate preventive treatment, including anti-D immunoglobulin where indicated.
Mrs. Nwachukwu further encouraged couples to seek professional medical advice regarding their blood-group and Rh status and adhere to recommended antenatal procedures to promote the health and safety of both mother and baby.
Ginika Oguji is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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