Rh Incompatibility & Hemolytic Disease of Newborn (HDN): Understanding the Risks

Yes, Rh incompatibility between a sensitized woman and an Rh- fetus can cause hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN). HDN occurs when an Rh-negative mother has developed antibodies against Rh-positive blood cells. This can happen during a previous pregnancy with an Rh-positive fetus or after a blood transfusion with Rh-positive blood.

If the mother is Rh-negative and the fetus is Rh-positive, the mother's immune system can see the fetus's Rh-positive blood cells as foreign and produce antibodies against them. These antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the fetus's red blood cells, causing them to break down (hemolyze). This can lead to anemia, jaundice, and other serious health problems in the fetus or newborn. HDN can be prevented by administering Rh immunoglobulin (RhIg) to Rh-negative women at certain times during pregnancy and after delivery. RhIg is a medication that helps prevent the mother's immune system from producing antibodies against Rh-positive blood cells.