To all rhesus negative women – A Must Rea
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Category: Pregnant
Forum Name: Pregnancy
Forum Description: Pregnant! Wanting to chat to other mums-to-be (or dads-to-be)? Share your thoughts, experiences, and ideas... This is that place!
URL: https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=28881
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Topic: To all rhesus negative women – A Must Rea
Posted By: NikkiB
Subject: To all rhesus negative women – A Must Rea
Date Posted: 21 September 2009 at 7:14pm
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It certainly isn’t my intention to scare you, but I want to inform you about your rights.
It has been passed by the Ministry of Health that as a prophylactic treatment, all rhesus negative women are eligible for Anti-D vaccinations at 28 weeks gestation and 32 weeks gestation in addition to having Anti-D after birth and after any obvious bleeds. Some DHB’s may offer this for free, while others may require you to pay (I’ve been told that each injection costs approximately $120 each). I know this may sound a lot, but this may help you decide. My story…. During my first pregnancy I had a silent bleed (this is where there is no obvious bleeding) sometime after 28 weeks gestation. Through a routine blood test at 37 weeks pregnant, it was discovered that I had already built up antibodies. It was too late for me to have Anti-D to reverse the antibodies – it doesn’t work like that. My antibodies were then passing the placenta and attacking my son’s red blood cells. Thankfully, I was late into my pregnancy, so did not cause too much concern for my son. My husband and I decided to have another baby. Pretty much through the whole pregnancy my antibodies, that were doubling at an amazing rate, were attacking our son’s red blood cells. We went through a high-risk obstetrician having at least 2 scans a week from 18 weeks gestation (at a cost to the Health System of about $120 a scan). I also had full day IV treatments to help stop my antibodies attacking our son (at a cost of about $6,000 – I had about 7 treatments - once again at the Health System’s expense). Our son also had two blood transfusion whilst in utero – lord knows how much that cost!). After much heartbreak and tears, none of this worked and our son was born at 26 weeks gestation. Because of his extreme prematurity, he has a list of problems. He spent the first 5 months of his life in hospital. Imagine the huge cost to the Health System, not to mention the emotional cost to our immediate and extended family (including friends). When I was pregnant back in 2007, it was not policy to offer Anti-D to Rhesus negative women at 28 & 32 weeks gestation, apparently the cost was too great. If we were given the option, we would certainly have funded it ourselves. The kicker is, that we were not made aware about the anti-D vaccine. No messages of sympathy please, we are very very lucky to have our little boy with us, my DH and I just want to stop this happening to other people. ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Replies:
Posted By: Emmi_
Date Posted: 21 September 2009 at 8:28pm
Wow, Im so glad you got your little boy! Thanks for sharing your story  It really is good to hear about these things.. I am a rhesus negative woman, when I miscarried at 7 weeks I made them give me the anti D, I didnt want to be taking any chances. For some random reason I remember learning about it in 4th form science! (weirdo!!)------------- 
+1 May 09 Angel 
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Posted By: mummy_becks
Date Posted: 21 September 2009 at 8:48pm
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Wow the things you learn, I am an rhesus negative and am thankful DH is as well. ------------- I was a puree feeder, forward facing, cot sleeping, pram pushing kind of Mum... and my kids survived! |
Posted By: shanstace
Date Posted: 03 October 2009 at 3:55pm
| Thanks heaps for your story. I'm 30 weeks pregnant and have just had my second injection. Me and my DP had decided not to get it then my OB explained things to me properly and we went ahead with it. Great to hear we made the right decision. My daughter was also born at 26 weeks. She is just about 11 now. Time goes so fast. |
Posted By: NovemberMum
Date Posted: 03 October 2009 at 4:02pm
us too ------------- http://lilypie.com"> 
http://lilypie.com"> 
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mummy_becks wrote:Posted By: Aithne
Date Posted: 04 October 2009 at 11:53am
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Im rhesus neg but only got the anti D after i gave birth and it was confirmed R had diff blood type to me. My MW never mentioned i could get any injections during pregnancy. I was just told to let them know if i fell over or hurt my tummy in any way. When i did fall over in 2nd trimester i only got a scan and that was it.
Good to know though so thanks. |
Posted By: DzinerGirl
Date Posted: 03 November 2009 at 9:38pm
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Wow, thanks for sharing your story!
I found out I was R Neg with my first lot of bloods and freaked out a little bit to start with. My MW hasn't mentioned the injections to me but maybe she will later on...anyway thank you for getting the information out there 
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 04 November 2009 at 7:01am
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Dzinergirl, if your mw doesn't bring it up, I would bring it up with her - its if you want the injections.
Good luck with your pregnancy  ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 04 November 2009 at 7:06am
Wow, thats pretty impressive that a 26 weeker survived 11 years ago Hope your DD is doing well.------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: Mum2ET
Date Posted: 04 November 2009 at 11:14am
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Dziner Girl- I asked my MW about it at my last visit and she said that they would only give the injections to me if I had any kind of bleed. but definitely worth talking to your MW about it. ------------- Mum to Ella (5) and Tom (2) |
Posted By: shanstace
Date Posted: 04 November 2009 at 12:30pm
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Dziner Girl - My specialist told me that you can have an internal bleed and this is why they give it to during your pregancy.
It is a personal choice whether you get the injection throughout pregnancy, just make sure you have all the facts. Nikki B- She is very impressive. You wouldn't even know she had a rough start to life. I am now 35 weeks pregnant with my little boy. What a different experience! |
Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 04 November 2009 at 12:39pm
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Mum2Ella, if you want the injections, then I would certainly push for them (regardless of what your MW said). Its your right to have the injections if you want them.
Shanstace, so pleased to hear that ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: mummyofprinces
Date Posted: 09 November 2009 at 9:15pm
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Bump for mumoftwins -------------   
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Posted By: RachFizz
Date Posted: 09 November 2009 at 10:43pm
I'm a little obsessed with this as I just finished a transfusion science paper that taught us all about the causes and effects of haemolytic disease of the newborn, and I'm O neg and my DH is A pos  haven't yet had any children but will definitely be making sure i get those injections when i am preg!
thanx 4 the info ------------- TTC#1 since Apr11 On hold for study! |
Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 10 November 2009 at 7:01am
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RachFizz, if we can help just one person not get RH diesease, then we'd be extremely happy ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 10 November 2009 at 12:29pm
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Thanks for sharing your story Nikki (and for the bump melnel!)
Nikki, is what happen to you and your son the norm for haemolytic disease, or at the extreme end of things? |
Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 10 November 2009 at 1:23pm
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Mumoftwins, there are a few major issues here, firstly, my body is extremely good at building up antibodies to anything - great for me, but not for any babies I carry . Secondly, my son has also got a complex heart defect (which made the blood transfusion in utero even more tricky as he could have gone into heart failure very easily - this was not caused by RH disease, it was just bad luck).
It is my understanding with RH disease, the chances of you having a prem baby are great - how prem all depends on how anemic your baby becomes and how quickly he/she becomes anemic. Also how he/she copes with blood transfusions if you have to go down that track. You will need to go through a high risk OB and have regular scans. To be completely honest, when my DH and I decided to try for our second son, knowing we had RH disease, we were completely naive to what it meant having a prem baby. What effect it would have on us (including our extended family) and, most importantly, what a prem baby has to go through to survive. Sorry, I don't mean to be all dome and gloom, but if we had known what we were to face, I'm not sure we would have gone there - don't get me wrong, I absolutely love my son to pieces, and wouldn't have it any other way now, but it hasn't been easy. I don't believe I'm an expert on RH disease, as I only really know how it effected my son and I. I don't mind answering any specific questions you may have, so feel free to pm me and I'll be happy to help. ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 10 November 2009 at 1:45pm
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Thanks so much for answering, I was just coming back to say I had decided to brave google and read that your experience was at the extreme end.
I'm beginning to wonder now if we should have number 4. I have 3 boys under 3 (twins turn 3 in January, #3 has just turned one) and if I'm honest, I don't "do" pregnancy very well! I seem to have picked up a complication with each pregnancy (PE in 1st, then PE & cholestasis in the 2nd....not to mention developing anti-D!!) and the thought of risking my babies health....well it's not a good thought!! |
Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 10 November 2009 at 2:15pm
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Good luck with whatever you decide ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 11 November 2009 at 7:22am
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I've been thinking about this, and would like to hear other people's stories with pregnancy and RH disease. I don't think our situation was at the extreme end, the reason I say this is because when not much was known about RH disease and pregnancies were not closely monitored, there were many pregnancies that ended in still births. In fact, in some families, going back through the generations, where the females have negative blood types, there were many 1 child families (which was pretty uncommon in that day and age). ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 11 November 2009 at 4:57pm
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I've asked on several other forums for anyone's experience with this.....haven't found anyone yet!
(sorry if my wording was a bit off Nikki....by extreme I was meaning on the scale of symptoms...as in prem birth at one end and mild jaundice at the other) If I find anyone else out there who has experienced this I'll send them over here!! |
Posted By: Babe
Date Posted: 11 November 2009 at 5:20pm
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So can blood complications just be caused if you're rhesus neg? I'm not and I don't think DH is either but I do find it fascinating!! In a strictly non-morbid sense!!!
My cousin had her first baby at 24 weeks and shes 8 now and while it wasn't due to those types of issues I remember how incredibly stressful it was so to have this added complication must make things alot more difficult. Anyway thanks for the info Nikki - its good to know even if it doesn't directly concern me. I can now pass it on to anyone I meet who is in this situation. -------------   
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 11 November 2009 at 7:12pm
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Thanks mumtotwins.
Babe, I know of one other blood disorder - I'm sure there are many others. I meet a lady (while I was having my IV treatment once a week, she was having the same treatment) her body caused her baby's blood to clot  She lost her first baby at about 32 weeks gestation  Thankfully, she's now got a very happy and healthy little girl. Apparently her condition is extremely rare.------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: babyg
Date Posted: 19 November 2009 at 9:52pm
I just wanted to come in and say that you are a star Nik and I think its wonderful that you are sharing what you know to help everyone. I've definitely learnt alot from reading so although it doesn't impact me directly - thank you. You rock ------------- Ev, Mum to: Carys Ruby - 4 October 2007 Spencer James - 2 July 2010 |
Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 20 January 2010 at 9:15pm
Just wanted to bump this, as I want my message to get out there  ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: magoogoo
Date Posted: 21 January 2010 at 6:36pm
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Thanks for this info. I am R H Neg and but had no issues in 1st pregnancy. I did get the Anti D after birth. I had a mc in October and had Anti D straight away. This pregnancy I think I will go for those extra injections although MW has said nothing about it. I do have an ob appointment in a few weeks so hopefully she tells me about them
Thanks again for this valuable information. ------------- http://lilypie.com"> 
http://lilypie.com"> 
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 21 January 2010 at 6:54pm
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You are more than welcome Good luck with this pregnancy. ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: caliandjack
Date Posted: 22 January 2010 at 11:04am
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I'm rhesus negative - when do you need to get the anti-d shots? During pregnancy or after your 1st. |
Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 22 January 2010 at 11:38am
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Caliandjack, best idea would be to talk to your MW or OB about it. The anti-d shots can be given during your pregnancy (at 28 weeks and 32 weeks) and after birth (anti-d is also given if you have any bleeds etc)
Good luck with TTC ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: Emmi_
Date Posted: 22 January 2010 at 6:29pm
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Im o-ve, and was talking to my MW about this at my appointment this week. She said that they are trying to introduce mandatory anti D at 28ish weeks, but there is bugger all available so you really have to push for it if you want it... It might just be my area (wellington), but yeah, its just what shes said.... -------------
+1 May 09 Angel
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 22 January 2010 at 7:49pm
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Emmi, I've also heard that. Its your baby, push for it, if that's what you want. ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: lostAmber
Date Posted: 25 January 2010 at 5:56pm
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I am so going to get this! I have had Anti D with my m/c but will be requesting this at those three intervals now too. Emmi, you may have to remind me! ------------- http://lilypie.com">  http://lilypie.com">
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 25 January 2010 at 6:31pm
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Congrats lostAmber ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: lostAmber
Date Posted: 26 January 2010 at 8:55am
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Thanks Nikki. I want to keep bumping this thread so I don't forget about it lol. ------------- http://lilypie.com"> http://lilypie.com">
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Posted By: Bizzy
Date Posted: 26 January 2010 at 9:02am
if you mention it to your mw when you first see her she should put it in her notes and discuss it with you. ------------- http://www.myfitnesspal.com/weight-loss-ticker"> 
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Posted By: babyg
Date Posted: 26 January 2010 at 7:26pm
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Congratulations lostAmber - very stickiest of thoughts for you ------------- Ev, Mum to: Carys Ruby - 4 October 2007 Spencer James - 2 July 2010 |
Posted By: lostAmber
Date Posted: 27 January 2010 at 4:30pm
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Okay, thanks Bizzy, will do this!
Thanks babyg, I too hope it's a sticky one!! ------------- http://lilypie.com"> http://lilypie.com">
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 13 February 2010 at 7:18pm
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bumped for you LostAmber (just in case you have forgotten to mention it to your mw) ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: MyLilSquishy
Date Posted: 16 February 2010 at 10:37am
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i got kicked in the stomach at work at about 24-25 weeks (learn to swim teacher) and ended up at the hospital for 2 nights with contraction type cramps. they didnt hesitate to give me Anti-D even though there was no sign of any bleeding anywhere. i would have demanded it if they hadnt given it to me though! (blood type is A-ve.) and i will be asking for it after my birth. its already on my birth plan and MW has already said she always gives it to Rh- women once they give birth, whether or not there is tearing or any other way she can see of blood moving between mum and bubs. so really glad i picked her now!
sending you all my good sticky vibes lostAmber! |
Posted By: Hunnybunny
Date Posted: 16 February 2010 at 4:35pm
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So I'm one of these ladies, lucky me
Whats the point in having the jabs at 28 and 32 weeks? I thought it was just a injection after giving birth, so the 2 injections at 28 and 32 weeks, are they as well as the jab after birth, or instead of? |
Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 16 February 2010 at 4:53pm
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Hunnybunny, yes they are in addition to the jab after birth. Its to help stop antibodies developing just in case you have a silent bleed. ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: lostAmber
Date Posted: 16 February 2010 at 5:46pm
Thanks Nikki. I did mention it to my midwife and she said they're not available and not necessary. She seemed really anti them to be honest, I wasn't sure what to think of that ------------- http://lilypie.com"> http://lilypie.com">
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 16 February 2010 at 6:55pm
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I'd say your midwife isn't fully informed...all you need to do is look at my situation.
If you wanted to, you could ring your local DHB and see what your options are. Up to you, but you could say that you want these injections, even if it means you have to pay for them - surely she can't refuse you then. The issue is about being well informed and having a choice. Sorry, I feel very passionate about this because once you've developed antibodies, there is nothing that can be done to get rid of them. We now can't have anymore children because I can't carry a baby long enough for the baby to survive. ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: SophieD
Date Posted: 16 February 2010 at 7:50pm
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I am RH -ve as well. Thanks for the info NikkiB, will def talk to mw about it.
------------- http://lilypie.com">  http://lilypie.com">
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Posted By: DonnaB
Date Posted: 17 February 2010 at 10:22pm
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I am O negative too.. 9 years ago I had a D & C in Australia and was given Anti D straight after operation and was told I would need this after each birth..
I guess I was lucky that it was given back then from what I've read because I had bleeding at 16 weeks gestation with DD and was given Anti D. I bled several times throughout the pregnancy but didn't require anymore injections as they last 4 months at a time. DD was born at 34 weeks without any known issues. It wasn't until I was pregnant with DS that my midwife informed me that the Anti D injection is now given at 28 and 34 weeks but only if showing signs of antibodies.. I had regular blood tests to test this and was fine. My DS was born 10 days overdue - a healthy 8lb 9oz.. Anti D given after birth.. I'm concerned as to why I didn't receive them during this pregnancy even though wasn't showing any antibodies in blood tests.. What a relief that my son was born healthy. I definately will be talking to my midwife about this next time and demanding the injections. At a cost of $120 per injection, this is nothing compared to the cost of caring for an unwell child. I thank you NikkiB for sharing your story - this will no doubt give a lot of mums something to think about. ------------- http://lilypie.com">  http://lilypie.com">
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 18 February 2010 at 6:53am
Thanks DonnaB
This doesn't make sense, because if antibodies were showing in your blood, then its too late for Anti-D. Anti-D can not get rid of antibodies already built up. I hope your MW is better informed now. ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: lostAmber
Date Posted: 18 February 2010 at 4:48pm
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Would those anti bodies show up in your first set of ante natal blood tests? ------------- http://lilypie.com"> http://lilypie.com">
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Posted By: caliandjack
Date Posted: 18 February 2010 at 5:17pm
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Would I need anti-d after having a termination? ------------- http://lilypie.com" rel="nofollow">   [/url] Angel June 2012 |
Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 18 February 2010 at 5:49pm
Yes, if you've developed antibodies. ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 18 February 2010 at 5:50pm
Its my understanding that you should have anti-d injection after terminations also. ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: lostAmber
Date Posted: 18 February 2010 at 6:23pm
ok, thanks. so I can assume that even after receiving the AntiD one week after I started bleeding with my m/c that it was still effective given these haven't been identified? ------------- http://lilypie.com"> http://lilypie.com">
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 18 February 2010 at 6:53pm
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LostAmber, if you've had bloods done since then and there has been no antibodies identified, then I would assume you are ok.
Sorry LostAmber, I hope I haven't made you worry ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 25 February 2010 at 8:31pm
| Bumping back to the top! |
Posted By: PixieL
Date Posted: 26 February 2010 at 11:15pm
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Thanks NikkiB I'm RH- and nearly 28 weeks. Will be asking for Anti D next week.
------------- http://lilypie.com"> 
1/2/9 (27/8/9)
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Posted By: Emmi_
Date Posted: 27 February 2010 at 12:35pm
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Yeah I will be asking my MW about it when I see her again (at 30 weeks) -------------
+1 May 09 Angel
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Posted By: Emmi_
Date Posted: 09 March 2010 at 10:13am
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Well just had my MW appointment.. and have organised to get my Anit D.. Gosh its a bit of a drama to get it, I have to ring the blood people, organise a time to pick it up, pick it up, meet her at the hosp with in 1 hour of picking it up, get her to give it to me, wait 20mins and then I can go! Have to go through it all again at 36w too...
But will all be worth it, so much better to be safe than sorry! -------------
+1 May 09 Angel
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Posted By: caliandjack
Date Posted: 09 March 2010 at 10:27am
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I'm waiting on the results of my Blood Group test to see if I have any antibodies, it seems it takes a little longer than the other anti natal bloods.
My GP said they don't routinely give anti-D any more, haven't got a MW yet, will be something to add to the list of things to discuss. ------------- http://lilypie.com" rel="nofollow"> [/url] Angel June 2012 |
Posted By: Emmi_
Date Posted: 09 March 2010 at 10:53am
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CJ, apparently its not routine to do it before 12 weeks any more (well thats what I got told when i spotted at 6w this pregnancy, after having it at 6w with my MC, MW said thats bull though, that you should get it any time you bleed/spot and your rH status has been confirmed). But it is govt policy to do it at 28 and 36w, but the govt wanted the MWs to do it with nothing in place, so from June it will be (according to the letter that got sent ot my MW in Dec last year).
Fight for it if you want it. Totally personal decision. My MW said that shes been a MW since 1991, has had about 80 women a year and non of them have developed anti bodies. I just figure that means shes bound to break that lucky streak sooner or later and thats a pretty good run. Prevention is the best cure if you ask me, and tis not worth the risk (IMHO, everyone is different) -------------
+1 May 09 Angel
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 09 March 2010 at 12:13pm
Couldn't agree more
Sounds like you're going to have to do a lot of running around. I'm surprised you are allowed to handle the blood product Mind you, at least you're going to get it now
Its also great to hear that your midwife got a letter about Anti-D. We were hoping the MWs were being updated. ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: Emmi_
Date Posted: 09 March 2010 at 12:17pm
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Yep by the sounds of it all MWs got the letter (saying that from jan 2010 its protocol to give Anti D at 28 and 36w) but there is no procedures in place to do it, like the AntiD has to be given within 1 hour of it being out of the fridge, and it has to be done at the hosp cos of the risk of antephalantic (sp!?) shock and it cant be done at the blood place cos of something else, so I think there is a DHB that is doing the trial system to do it, and so by July it should be able to be put in place over the country. Thats just my understanding from it anyway -------------
+1 May 09 Angel
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Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 09 March 2010 at 4:13pm
The antibodies test does take longer then other maternity bloodtest, it can't be done at the local hospital or lab. I'm in Palmerston North and my test was sent to Wellington (to the bloodservice centre or something!). Had mine 2 wks ago and still waiting to hear the results....not sure if it takes that long, or if the OB is waiting until my appointment to tell me (guessing my MW hasn't had the results as she would call!!) |
Posted By: caliandjack
Date Posted: 09 March 2010 at 4:36pm
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I'm in Feilding so I guess my results will be going through the same process. ------------- http://lilypie.com" rel="nofollow"> [/url] Angel June 2012 |
Posted By: MissAngel
Date Posted: 09 March 2010 at 6:31pm
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Um.. so I just was reading about my blood type and i'm Rh Negative. So that means when I see my MW next tuesday I should be mentioning this to her?? I didnt even think about it until hubby found a letter from my first preg stating my BT. I'm confused now! ------------- Alex, Thomas and Lily http://lilypie.com" rel="nofollow"> 
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Posted By: lostAmber
Date Posted: 10 March 2010 at 6:23pm
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Your midwife should already have a copy of those first antenatal bloods and know your blood type, but incase she hasn't ordered them, I would definitely let her know- she needs to know! ------------- http://lilypie.com"> http://lilypie.com">
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Posted By: MissAngel
Date Posted: 10 March 2010 at 8:12pm
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i never had these injections first time round.. how odd. ------------- Alex, Thomas and Lily http://lilypie.com" rel="nofollow">
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Posted By: PixieL
Date Posted: 10 March 2010 at 10:06pm
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Miss A are you sure? I thought it was standard practice to give anti-D to RH neg women after birth. (Sorry hope that didn't sound rude, don't mean to doubt you!)
My midwife has emailed me some stuff she was sent in October 2009. PM me your email if you want it. They don’t seem to be particularly in favour of it although most of their concerns seem to be around the difficulties of administering it. My midwife said it didn’t seem to be available in Canterbury at the moment. I’m sure she’ll make sure I get it if I insist though. ------------- http://lilypie.com">
1/2/9 (27/8/9)
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Posted By: Emmi_
Date Posted: 11 March 2010 at 7:48am
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I know that if tehy had had procols in place to administer it it would be standard practice by jan this year. But because the Anti D only has a 1 hour life span out of the fridge, and it has to be administered in special places (like at the hosp) so that if you react to it then they can do something about it (rather than at the MWs room) and they cant give it at the blood place (I think it was something to do with giving blood products at the blood place so it would be easy to contaminate (not sure with you or you contaminating something else). And then you have to wait 20mins to make sure you dont react.
This difficulty in administring is why I am pretty sure there is one DHB that is trailing a system now, and from July 2010 the protocols around administring it will be sorted out making it the new standard practice. Sorry if that doesnt make sense? The letter that my MW had on her notice board, was dated dec 09, and was talking about all that. As the MWs did kick up a stink about having to do this (Which seems like a massive task!) with no procedure in place to enable them to do it... -------------
+1 May 09 Angel
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Posted By: caliandjack
Date Posted: 16 March 2010 at 4:27pm
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Yay Blood Group results came back, and no antibodies so that's good news, means there was no sensitization from my termination.
All I have to do know is keep an eye out for any bleeding etc. ------------- http://lilypie.com" rel="nofollow"> [/url] Angel June 2012 |
Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 16 March 2010 at 6:11pm
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That is excellent news caliandjack Good luck with this pregnancy ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: rollergirl
Date Posted: 18 March 2010 at 3:25pm
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Posted By: rollergirl
Date Posted: 18 March 2010 at 3:30pm
Hi, Thanks for your story, glad it all worked out okay. I was just curious now as I am also a Rhesus Neg, I've had the Anti D after both my children, who had their fathers positive blood type and also injections after 2 miscarriages. I am now 36 weeks pregnant with 3rd baby and have not been offered any Anti D at any stage. Is this normal? I think my blood was tested for antibodies at the start though....any comments anyone????
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 18 March 2010 at 3:45pm
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It is 'normal', well, was 'normal', not to be offered anti-d until after baby was born or if you have had any obvious bleeds. Now anti-d should be offered to RH- women at 28 & 32 weeks. If you did have any antibodies from your previous pregnancies, then they would have shown at the bloods done at the beginning of your pregnancy. Hope this helps. ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 26 March 2010 at 7:48pm
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Bumping back to the top!
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Posted By: MissAngel
Date Posted: 26 March 2010 at 7:57pm
i checked with her at my last appointment and apparently I did have it after birth - was so zonked out after the section that I had no idea! Not having anything til after the next apparently. Not that i'll be having anymore kids however. ------------- Alex, Thomas and Lily http://lilypie.com" rel="nofollow">
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Posted By: PixieL
Date Posted: 05 April 2010 at 12:15pm
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Well I've been trying to get anti-D for the last 5 weeks now.
Midwife said she'd follow it up. Sent me info but didn't get my email saying yes I want it. (She doesn't think I need it) She then faxed through all my details at our last appointment 2 weeks ago. She then asked if the hospital had rung me. They rang her and are not keen to give it to me. They told her they were going to ring me but haven't. I fell over last week and broke my foot- nowhere near my tummy though. They tested me to see if I had any of the baby's blood in my blood (sorry don't know technical term, think this is different from having antibodies though- maybe the step before?) and there were none. They werent keen to test me but I pushed them to do it. So noone will actually say no, they just fob me off and the weeks go by. I hate to say it but I've given up now. If anyone is trying to get access to antiD in Christchurch, good luck! ------------- http://lilypie.com">
1/2/9 (27/8/9)
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 05 April 2010 at 2:04pm
That's really disappointing PixieL  As a RH- women, its your right to get Anti-D. Could you make a complaint to someone at the hospital? Personally, I'm not one to complain and don't like doing it, but it can be a way to get want you want????
Sorry to hear you've broken your foot, you poor thing  Hope you have a incident free pregnancy from here on in. ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: PixieL
Date Posted: 06 April 2010 at 5:22pm
Hi Nikki Can you direct me to an official document with this on it? This might give me the 'proof' I need to get them to give me this. Also, my midwife told me today that they have stopped giving this in the UK. Thanks :) ------------- http://lilypie.com">
1/2/9 (27/8/9)
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 06 April 2010 at 9:18pm
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PixieL, I've got no official documentation, however, we have been advised by the Minister of Health and our local DHB that the pilot to implement prophylactic antenatal anti D to all RH- pregnant women was expected to finish in October/December 2009 and that after the pilot has been run, the Ministry has requested that all DHB's to commence prophylactic administraton for antenatal Anti D early in 2010.
Maybe there has been a delay in the pilot?? Perhaps you could contact your local DHB to find out what their stand is on this?? To be honest, my DH wrote, what seemed like, a mountain of letters, to get the answers we were looking for, that anti D was being offered (paid for or not) to RH- pregnant women. We have not gone that step further to make sure that it is being implemented. We would be deeply disappointed to learn that it hasn't been implemented yet. However, we have had to let go, for our own sanity. The aim to my thread was to spread the word so it could avoid others from developing antibodies, when there is/should be a system in place to stop this from happening. So sorry I can't help you anymore. Good luck, I hope you get the right answer from your local DHB. ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 15 April 2010 at 9:54pm
bump
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Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 27 April 2010 at 1:25pm
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back to the top!
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Posted By: PixieL
Date Posted: 30 April 2010 at 9:53pm
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Hi Nikki
Well the hospital rang me last week out of the blue and called me in for a free AntiD injection! So had one finally at 35 1/2 weeks. So it is possible in CHCH and will hopefully become easier to get the more people push for it.
Thanks for all the info on this. ------------- http://lilypie.com">
1/2/9 (27/8/9)
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 01 May 2010 at 6:31am
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You are very welcome. I'm pleased you are finally getting the Anti-D ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: BugTeeny
Date Posted: 01 May 2010 at 7:32am
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I'm RH- and was given the Anti-D after Hannah's birth as she has a positive blood type.
It was my understanding this it the only time this is given? My last set of antenatal bloods showed no anti-bodies, so my MW said I'll only be given the Anti-D if Baby #2 has a positive blood type. MissAngel, did you sign a consent to be given the injection? It's a blood product, so they need the patient's consent, I thought? Gosh, so many things to think about when having babies, huh!! I'll have a chat to my mw when I see her at 28 weeks about this. ------------- 
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Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 01 May 2010 at 4:53pm
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Mamapickle.....if you have any bleeding during your pregnancy, you should have the anti-D jab within 72hrs of it starting to prevent the antibodies developing. If you have no noticable bleeding then yes, you only receive it after baby is born IF baby is Rh+.
However as in Nikki's original post, it can be offered at 28 and 34 wks as a preventative.......so cases like hers and mine don't happen!! I developed antibodies during my last pregnancy, at some point between 28 & 36 wks. Thankfully my antibody levels this pregnancy are remaining low and steady. |
Posted By: BugTeeny
Date Posted: 02 May 2010 at 9:16am
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Ahh it's clear now. Thanks for that
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Posted By: Hunnybunny
Date Posted: 03 May 2010 at 3:39pm
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Hmm so I'm 30 weeks and never got the injection.... Totally forgot bout it!!
Do you need it while your pregnant if you haven't had any bleeding or anything? |
Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 03 May 2010 at 3:57pm
Having it at 28 & 34 wks is a new intiative and not in place in all DHB's yet, so it's not surprising you haven't had it Hunnybunny. If you haven't had any bleeding you should be fine. Ask your midwife weather it is available for 3rd trimester women in your area, she hopefully will know. You'll still receive it after birth if baby is Rh+. |
Posted By: caliandjack
Date Posted: 03 May 2010 at 4:31pm
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My MW said to keep an eye on any bleeding due to my blood type, I don't have any antibodies - as at my initial blood test to confirm my pregnancy.
I will look at getting the BT done again at 28 and 34 weeks - and depending on the results get anti-D shots. I don't remember getting one after my termination and I don't have any antibodies. My understanding from my GP and MW is that they don't automatically give you anti-D after delivery any more. ------------- http://lilypie.com" rel="nofollow"> [/url] Angel June 2012 |
Posted By: Emmi_
Date Posted: 03 May 2010 at 4:56pm
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C&J, if your tests show you dont have anti bodies then thats great, but once they do show antibodies, then its too late to undo it. Having the Anti D wont take the antibodies away again...
HB if you want it, you can tell your MW you want it and she will sort it out for you (or tell you how to sort it out). it is now standard practice to have the anti d at 28 and 34 weeks (with no bleeding), but there isnt a procedure in place yet to make sure it happens. -------------
+1 May 09 Angel
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Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 03 May 2010 at 6:46pm
Definitely still get given anti-D jab after birth if your baby is Rh+. As far as I'm aware there is no routine blood test at 34 wks (28wks is glucose test..antibodies is one of the additional things checked at this time) and as Emmi said...once you have the anti-bodies there is no way to get rid of them. |
Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 27 May 2010 at 7:29pm
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Back to the top...
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Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 12 June 2010 at 6:53pm
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Posted By: Emmi_
Date Posted: 13 June 2010 at 4:47pm
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I have to say that Im glad I had the routine anti d's, Lilla was A+ so I am glad that I had them done, JIC
I hope next time Im PG its common place (and easy!) to get them done. -------------
+1 May 09 Angel
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Posted By: caliandjack
Date Posted: 13 June 2010 at 5:04pm
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I will look at getting anti-d after the birth, as its highly likely baby will be R+ as DH is. ------------- http://lilypie.com" rel="nofollow"> [/url] Angel June 2012 |
Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 13 June 2010 at 7:39pm
If baby is Rh+ you will automatically be given it after birth....you shouldn't have to ask for it. Congratulations Emmi!!!! |
Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 07 July 2010 at 7:12am
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bump ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |
Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 13 July 2010 at 7:20pm
| Back to the top we go!! |
Posted By: mumoftwins
Date Posted: 05 August 2010 at 2:52pm
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Well my baby has arrived!!
We had a wee girl on the 30th of July and everything is going great! She is A- like me, but still had to have about 4 blood tests done in her first 12 hrs to check her bilirubin levels due to my anti-bodies......at one point they were very close to putting her under lights (which would have meant she would have gone to neo-nates ) but it was decided to check her levels again in a few hours....luckily they dropped to an acceptable level!!
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Posted By: lostAmber
Date Posted: 05 August 2010 at 7:06pm
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I may talk to my OB about this next week. Even though i've missed the 28wk window, maybe it would still be helpful to have it at 34wks? My MW was never concerned or interested in me doing this when I brought it up in the beginning so I just dropped it.
c&j, you will be given Anti D at the birth if baby is positive- this will already be on your notes. ------------- http://lilypie.com"> http://lilypie.com">
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Posted By: NikkiB
Date Posted: 06 August 2010 at 8:59am
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Congrats mumoftwins No wonder your antibodies remained really low. I'm so happy for you guys!!!
lostAmber, if I were you, I'd still request anti-d injection at 34 weeks. Good luck! ------------- A very lucky mummy to two gorgeous boys: RB 3/10/2008 JB 29/12/2009 |