The Rh factor can result in a risk to a child if the
A)fetus's blood is Rh negative and the mother's is Rh positive.
B)fetus's blood is Rh positive and the mother's is Rh negative.
C)father's Rh factor and the mother's Rh factor are both negative.
D)father's Rh factor and the mother's Rh factor are both positive.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When the mother is Rh negative and the fetus is Rh positive, the mother's body may see the Rh factor as foreign and produce Rh antibodies. These antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the fetus’ red blood cells, resulting in hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN). This can cause anemia, jaundice, and possibly brain damage or death in the fetus. Therefore, Rh incompatibility only results in a risk to the child if the mother is Rh negative and the fetus is Rh positive.

The Rh Factor Can Result in a Risk to a Child