Rh Sensitization Risk After Early Miscarriage: What You Need to Know

Question
Hello,

I recently miscarried my first pregnancy at 4-8 weeks.  The length is unknown because I have an irregular cycle and my first ultrasound was scheduled for March 28 (12-16 wks).  I am Rh- and recived Rhogam one week after the loss.  I am interested in learning the likelihood of becoming Rh sensitized with a loss occurring this early.  I am not even positive at what point a fetus develops its own blood supply for mixing to possible occur.  I have visited many Rh focused message boards and found many women with this same question.  Please respond so that I may get at least a statistical perspective of what I may be facing.  Thank you very much.

Answer
Dear Dori,

Any time there is a miscarriage, abortion, ectopic pregnancy, or a delivery, the potential is there for sensitization. In order to eliminate the possibility of any issues in the future, RhoGAM is given. It is simply preventative - a "better safe than sorry" measure to safeguard the health of future babies.

I'm not sure what you are looking for as far as a "statistical perspective". Since the administration of RhoGAM has begun, the issue of infant mortality and illness related to Rh incompatibility has virtually been eliminated. Since RhoGAM became the standard of care in the US, the risk of Rh incompatibility has been reduced from 10-20% to less than 1%.

I hope this information has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda