Eventually, as these foreign red cells die, they are replaced by the child’s own Rh positive cells.
Exchange transfusions have even been done while the child is still in the womb — but is now possible to prevent this iso-immunisation by the use of anti-D gamma globulin.
This should be given to any Rh negative woman who has an Rh positive child and who has not developed antibodies. It should be given within 72 hours of the birth and will prevent formation of antibodies and so the child of the next pregnancy is protected.
Anti-D gamma globulin is made by the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories from blood collected by the Red Cross Blood Banks in each State. It is made available free of charge.
When a pregnant woman first visits her doctor, her blood should be examined to determine her blood group. If she is Rhesus negative, her antibodies should also be checked. At this initial screening, it is also possible to look for other uncommon and rare antibodies.
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