Question

If the husband is $R{h}^{+}$ and the wife is $R{h}^{-}$ then

• A. The couple cannot get children.
• B. The couple's first child may be born but they are not likely to have their second child without medical intervention.
• C. Their first fetus will not survive but the subsequent ones will.
• D. The couple's reproductive life will be normal.

Answer 1

The correct option is B The couple's first child may be born but they are not likely to have their second child without medical intervention.

When an Rh- negative mother is impregnated by an Rh- positive father and is carrying an Rh- positive baby, the foetus Rh antigens will be perceived as foreign invaders in mother's body. It can initiate the protective mechanism that can end up harming the child. During first pregnancy, the antibodies are produced in lower concentration and do not harm the foetus. But antibodies against the Rh factor will be produced in the mother’s body during delivery of first child. During second pregnancy with Rh+ baby, concentration of antibodies against Rh factor will build up, which will attack the blood cells of foetus and will cause its death (Erythroblastosis foetalis).