Publication:

Maternal and perinatal outcome in Rh negative mothers

Background The objective of this study is to find out the incidence and foetomaternal outcome of Rh negative women during pregnancy.

Methods In the study group, the labor was monitored carefully and the mode of delivery and the outcome of labor was studied in detail. Baby was thoroughly examined for any obvious congenital anomaly, weight, sex and condition was also noted particularly for hydrops. If neonate was Rh positive, then the mother was given postpartum immunoprophylaxis within 24 hours of delivery. The new born were followed for 3 days and were watched for the development of Jaundice. Mothers were advised to attend postnatal clinic for check-up after 6 weeks of delivery.

Results Blood group distribution of newborn: 37 were Rh positive and 18 were Rh negative. Raised Rh antibody titre was not found in any of the 55 cases. Maximum cases 47 delivered at 38-40 weeks, 2 cases delivered after 40 weeks and 6 patients delivered between 30-38 weeks. Maximum cases 37 delivered normally, 12 required cesarean section and 2 had forceps delivery. The babies who developed NNHB were managed either by sunrays exposure only or by phototherapy. The babies who had anemia immediately after birth were carefully monitored and considered for exchange transfusion.

Conclusions Tremendous advances in the medical services and technology during the last few decades have revolutionized the treatment of Rh disease. Various studies have been conducted and several are going on the in this field to achieve zero incidence of this disease.