When is Rh immunoglobulin typically given to pregnant individuals?

Rh immunoglobulin is typically administered to pregnant individuals who are Rh negative and are carrying an Rh positive baby. This is crucial because if an Rh negative mother carries an Rh positive fetus, there is a risk of Rh incompatibility, which can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn. If fetal blood cells enter the mother’s circulation, her immune system may recognize the Rh positive cells as foreign and produce antibodies against them. These antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the red blood cells of the fetus, potentially leading to serious health issues.

The administration of Rh immunoglobulin during pregnancy helps to prevent the mother from forming these antibodies if she is Rh negative. It is typically given around the 28th week of gestation and again within 72 hours after delivery if the infant is found to be Rh positive. This preventative treatment is not needed for Rh positive mothers since they do not risk developing antibodies against their own blood type, therefore ensuring that the Rh system incompatibility does not pose a threat to the pregnancy.

In summary, giving Rh immunoglobulin specifically in cases where the mother is Rh negative and the baby is Rh positive is a critical measure in prenatal care to prevent complications related to Rh incompatibility.