To try to prevent Rh isoimmunisation in a pregnant Rh-negative woman, the so-called Rh vaccine is given at 28 weeks gestation. In addition, this vaccine will also be administered within 72 hours after delivery (if the baby is Rh positive) and if any of the following situations occur:
- Ectopic pregnancy.
- Miscarriage or voluntary termination of pregnancy.
- Amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling and other invasive procedures.
- External cephalic version.
- Vaginal bleeding in pregnancy.
- Trauma or blow to the womb while pregnant.
The vaccine is intended to prevent a woman from becoming sensitised to the Rh factor, i.e. producing anti-Rh antibodies that can lead to serious complications if she becomes pregnant again with an Rh-positive baby.
Read the full article on: Maternal isoimmunisation due to Rh incompatibility, what are the risks? ( 63).
By Rocío Rodríguez Martín M.D. (gynaecologist) and Silvia Azaña Gutiérrez B.Sc., M.Sc. (embryologist).
Last Update: 06/16/2023
