How to Diagnose Isoimmunization

Pregnancy brings all sorts of changes to a woman's body, but for women who have an Rh-negative blood type, or sensitized to the Rh-positive blood type of their unborn child, one of the concerns is developing Isoimmunization. Only a doctor can diagnose isoimmunization, but knowing what doctors look for and what contributes to the rare but serious condition of isoimmunization helps not only you, but your baby as well.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Understand the basics of isoimmunization. A mother's immune system which is Rh sensitized can destroy her unborn baby's red blood cells leaving her fetus with severe anemia and risking death if left undiagnosed or untreated.

2. Know your blood type and that of your baby's father to help diagnose isoimmunization. Telling this information to your doctor at your very first prenatal visit will help them determine the likeliness of developing this condition.

3. Tell your doctor if you have ever had a miscarriage, abortion or a serious injury to your abdomen. These can also be causes for Rh sensitization and a thorough history will give your doctor more information to make a correct and early diagnosis.

4. Screen your blood and screen for antibodies at the beginning of your pregnancy. This screening will include ABO blood group, Rh type and an antibody screen, which will indicate any complications of your blood to your physician.

5. Discuss preventive measures with your doctor if you have had a previous pregnancy that had isoimmunization complications. Future pregnancies are at greater risk for complications and death, but treatment options such as Rh immunoglobulin injections are available.