Rh Factor Incompatibility

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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Rh (rhesus) factor incompatibility is a condition that occurs when a mother is Rh negative (Rh-) and her baby is Rh positive (Rh+). Rh factor is a protein found on red blood cells. You are Rh+ if you have this protein and Rh- if you do not have it. Rh incompatibility usually has little effect on your first pregnancy, but can cause problems with future pregnancies.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Seek care immediately if:

• You feel your baby is moving less or is not moving at all.
• You have trauma, especially to your abdomen, even if you do not feel like you were hurt.
• You have heavy vaginal bleeding.

Call your doctor or obstetrician if:

• You have a fever.
• You have severe abdominal pain.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• dexamethasone
• Clinacort
• Kenalog-40
• Dexamethasone Intensol
• Dxevo

View more treatment options

Prevent Rh factor incompatibility:

• Immune globulin (RhIg) shots prevent your body from making Rh antibodies. RhIg shots are usually given in the 28th week of pregnancy and within 72 hours after you give birth. You may need another shot if you have not given birth within 12 weeks after the first shot. RhIg shots may also be given after an abortion, miscarriage, or abdominal trauma.
• Shots are also given after any procedure that may cause your baby's blood to leak into your bloodstream. These procedures may include amniocentesis, fetal blood sampling, or a change in the baby's position in the womb before birth.

Follow up with your doctor or obstetrician as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

For support and more information:

• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
  P.O. Box 70620
  Washington , DC 20024-9998
  Phone: 1- 202 - 638-5577
  Phone: 1- 800 - 673-8444
  Web Address: http://www.acog.org
  

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Further information

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