I am Rh negative: what does it mean in pregnancy?
Being Rh negative is not a disease. It matters because incompatibility with fetal red cells and maternal sensitisation may occur in selected situations.
- Obstetric consultation
- Advanced ultrasound
- Laboratory and screening
- Late-pregnancy monitoring
- Nutrition
What is tested
- ABO blood group and Rh factor.
- Irregular antibody screening.
- History of pregnancies, transfusion or sensitisation.
- Pregnancy events that may require action.
Anti-D prophylaxis
When indicated, anti-D immunoglobulin aims to prevent sensitisation. Timing and need depend on protocol, results and events such as bleeding, procedures or trauma.
Not every Rh-negative patient follows exactly the same plan; the care team should prescribe it.
If antibodies are detected
Antibodies need identification and assessment of type, relevance and titre where applicable. Specialist hospital follow-up may differ from routine prophylaxis.
Keep the information with you
Retain blood group/Rh, antibody screen and documentation of administered doses. Share these with Askabide and the reference hospital.
Clinical sources
General information only. It does not replace an individual medical assessment or recommendation.
Reviewed 19 August 2026