Question

What serious complication can occur in Rh-negative mothers undergoing amniocentesis, and how is it prevented?

Options

• Hemolytic anemia, prevented by blood transfusion

• Preterm labor, prevented by tocolytic medications

• Chorioamnionitis, prevented by prophylactic antibiotics

• Rh sensitization, prevented by anti-D injection

Answer 1

Rh-negative mothers undergoing amniocentesis face the risk of Rh sensitization if fetal red blood cells enter maternal circulation. This complication is prevented by administering anti-D immunoglobulin, which suppresses maternal alloimmunization against the RhD antigen.