QuestionI know that rhogam is given at 28wks and after delivery, but why at 28wks. Why not sooner? What is so special about 28wks?
AnswerHi Lori,
Rhogam is given to expectant mothers between 26-28 weeks gestation because if you have Rh negative blood and your husband has Rh positive blood, you need to get a RhoGam shot at 28 weeks gestation and again within 72 hours after the baby is born, so that you do not become sensitized (so that your body will not build up antibodies to Rh factor). Keep in mind as well, it can take between 12-14 weeks to even detect if mother has developed the anitbodies.
The reason why this shot is given at the 28 week mark, is because the shot does have a lasting effect. It lasts about 12 weeks after administration. That's why it's given at 28 weeks, so there is "coverage" until birth and till approximately the baby is 12 weeks of age. Usually after birth, another shot will be given, as a preventative measure, because during delivery mothers blood can come in direct contact with the baby.
Rhogam, will be given earlier then that, but in rare cases, where a patient is having a bleed, or is at risk for having a internal bleed.
Hope this answers your question, and thanks for writing.
