How Can Rh Incompatibility Be Prevented?

Rh incompatibility can be prevented with Rh immune globulin, as long as the medicine is given at the correct times. Once you have formed Rh antibodies, the medicine will no longer help.

That's why a woman who has Rh-negative blood must be treated with Rh immune globulin during and after each pregnancy or after any other event that allows her blood to mix with Rh-positive blood.

Early prenatal care also can help prevent some of the problems linked to Rh incompatibility. Early prenatal care allows your doctor to find out early whether you're at risk for the condition.

If you're at risk, your doctor can closely monitor your pregnancy and watch for signs of hemolytic anemia in your baby. He or she can treat the baby as needed to increase your chances of having a healthy baby.