Question

After examining the blood groups of husband and wife, the doctor advised them not to have more than one child. The blood groups of the couple are likely to be

• A. Male Rh${}^{-}$ and female Rh${}^{+}$
• B. Male Rh${}^{+}$ and female Rh${}^{+}$
• C. Female Rh${}^{-}$ and male Rh${}^{+}$
• D. Male Rh${}^{-}$ and female Rh${}^{-}$

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Female Rh${}^{-}$ and male Rh${}^{+}$

When a Rh-negative mother is impregnated by a Rh-positive father and is carrying an Rh-positive baby, the foetus Rh antigens will be perceived as foreign invaders in the mother's body. During the second pregnancy with Rh${}^{+}$ baby, the concentration of antibodies against Rh factor will build-up, which will attack the blood cells of the foetus and will cause its death. This condition is known as Erythroblastosis foetalis.

So, the correct option is C.