The Rh factor is a protein that can be present on the surface of red blood cells, and it plays a crucial role in determining an individual's blood type as either Rh-positive or Rh-negative. Its significance becomes particularly critical during pregnancy, as Rh incompatibility between a mother and fetus can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn if not properly managed.

Rh Factor

Rh factor

Red blood cells, or erythrocytes, are the most common type of blood cell and are primarily responsible for delivering oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and returning carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs. Their biconcave shape and lack of a nucleus allow for maximum surface area and flexibility, optimizing their role in gas exchange and transport within the circulatory system.

red blood cells

blood type

Rh-positive

Rh-negative

Pregnancy is the biological process in which a fertilized egg develops into a fetus within a woman's uterus, typically lasting about 40 weeks from the last menstrual period to childbirth. It involves complex physiological changes and requires careful medical monitoring to ensure the health of both the mother and the developing baby.

pregnancy

Rh incompatibility occurs when a pregnant woman with Rh-negative blood type carries a fetus with Rh-positive blood type, potentially leading to hemolytic disease of the newborn. This condition can be prevented with the administration of Rh immunoglobulin (RhIg) to the mother during and after pregnancy.

Rh incompatibility

mother and fetus

Hemolytic disease of the newborn is a condition where the immune system of an Rh-negative mother attacks the red blood cells of her Rh-positive baby, leading to anemia and potentially severe complications. This is prevented by administering Rh immunoglobulin to the mother during and after pregnancy to prevent sensitization to Rh-positive blood cells.

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