Are you getting the Rhogam shot? Thoughts?

MrsW80

I am just wondering how many of you also have to get a Rhogam shot like me.  Doc told me I have to get it at 28 weeks and I never really thought twice about it until today when I decided to do some research on it and now I'm terrified.  I'm not so scared of getting it after delivery IF my baby is + blood type, but what I'm torn about is receiving it at 28 weeks.  I just can't figure out why we just can't wait until after delivery when we can find out the baby's blood type and if I even need it.  I know my doc is going to give me a problem though and insist I receive it at 28 weeks.  I do know that I will insisist on a mercury free shot no matter what!  So my question is....when are you receiving yours and what are your thoughts on the subject?  Obviously if I were injured or had any bleeding during my pregnancy I would get the shot immediately, but I'm just having a hard time justifying getting it at 28 weeks just because the drug company decided we need it.

babyhardebeck

I am getting this shot at 28 weeks as well.  When I talked to my Mom about it, she is a nurse, she said the reason they give it to you during pregnancy is just in case you ever had a miscarriage before you even knew you were pregnant so that it wouldn't attack this baby.  It is just a precaution.  She said that it doesn't hurt anything. 

nugget0411

never heard of it....my DH is a pharmacist and has never heard of it either...

must be an american thing.

MrsW80

nugget0411:

never heard of it....my DH is a pharmacist and has never heard of it either...

must be an american thing.

I think that it's an american thing to give the shot during pregnancy, I know that in Europe and Canada they only give it if needed after delivery.  This is why i'm so iffy on the situation.  I'm just not sure I want a blood product injected into me (and my baby), if it may not be necessary.

nugget0411

MrsW80:

nugget0411:

never heard of it....my DH is a pharmacist and has never heard of it either...

must be an american thing.

I think that it's an american thing to give the shot during pregnancy, I know that in Europe and Canada they only give it if needed after delivery.  This is why i'm so iffy on the situation.  I'm just not sure I want a blood product injected into me (and my baby), if it may not be necessary.

i would agree with you - if it's not necessary then why?? is it your Dr specific or have you heard of anyone else doing this? what else did your Dr say?

mne0617

I had mine on Wednesday. I didn't really think much about it prior too, just thought it was something I needed to have... hmm, I will say that I wasn't prepared when she told me to pull down my pants a little so she could put the needle in my butt cheek. I just figured, my mom had it when she was pregnant with all of us, and it caused no harm... so I never thought to question it. 

janjag

I had mine early, at around 10wks b/c of spotting.  DH did a google search and got some crazy info - won't even repeat it.  When I relayed this to my Peri he looked at me like I was nuts... had never heard of this side-effect.  Doctors must love google. 

MissLadyTay

I got it.  Didn't think twice about it, and I'm extremely thankful to live in a world where we know about Rhesus incompatibility and can do something about it.  There is a risk the baby's blood could mix with yours during delivery.

RJHarmon

MissLadyTay:

I got it.  Didn't think twice about it, and I'm extremely thankful to live in a world where we know about Rhesus incompatibility and can do something about it.  There is a risk the baby's blood could mix with yours during delivery.

I had one with my m/c, one at 28 wks with DD, and have one scheduled for 28 weeks this time.  I am not willing to risk the health of myself or my child.

bea0422

I've never heard of it and my doctor hasn't said anything about it... I say go with your gut. American prenatal care is known for its unnecessary procedures. I would deffinately look at what the procedures are in Europe and Canada and find out what the risks are... If you aren't showing any signs of it being necessarry at this time, I wouldn't worry about it. Obviously it is not something ALL doctors require for every woman so I doubt you are risking your childs life by deciding not to get it until after birth.

arizabateman

i got it and didnt think twice. i had a m/c at 10weeks with my first so if the dr says i need it to prevent anything happening to my baby and its not going to have some crazy side effect im ok with it. i trust my dr/midwife.

jbd1020

bea0422:

I've never heard of it and my doctor hasn't said anything about it... I say go with your gut. American prenatal care is known for its unnecessary procedures. I would deffinately look at what the procedures are in Europe and Canada and find out what the risks are... If you aren't showing any signs of it being necessarry at this time, I wouldn't worry about it. Obviously it is not something ALL doctors require for every woman so I doubt you are risking your childs life by deciding not to get it until after birth.

It's not required for everyone because it's only for people with an Rh negative blood type (O-, A-, etc.). Just because you've not heard of it does not make it some kind of scam.

In the US, people generally refer to the injection as Rhogam, which is a brand name (though there are others as well). In other countries it's just called an anti-D injection.

According to this, they actually give it more frequently in the UK, at 28 and 34 weeks in order to minimize risks (which can be very serious, including death) to future pregnancies in the case of a "silent bleed", which apparently are not that uncommon.

jbd1020

MrsW80:

I am just wondering how many of you also have to get a Rhogam shot like me.  Doc told me I have to get it at 28 weeks and I never really thought twice about it until today when I decided to do some research on it and now I'm terrified.  I'm not so scared of getting it after delivery IF my baby is + blood type, but what I'm torn about is receiving it at 28 weeks.  I just can't figure out why we just can't wait until after delivery when we can find out the baby's blood type and if I even need it.  I know my doc is going to give me a problem though and insist I receive it at 28 weeks.  I do know that I will insisist on a mercury free shot no matter what!  So my question is....when are you receiving yours and what are your thoughts on the subject?  Obviously if I were injured or had any bleeding during my pregnancy I would get the shot immediately, but I'm just having a hard time justifying getting it at 28 weeks just because the drug company decided we need it.

I think the UK/Canadian version of BabyCenter explains it the best. They actually give it MORE frequently than in the US - at 28 and 34 weeks.

It is possible for there to be tiny, tiny bleeds that go unnoticed during the third trimester and potentially sensitize you, which could be disastrous to future pregnancies. So, there is a slight chance that it will be too late if you wait to get it after the baby is born. Once you're sensitized, that's it - there's no going back.

It's important to remember that Rhogam is a brand name. There are many other products out there. I'm an OB nurse and the only version I've ever given or received (3 times - 1 per miscarriage and just now at 28 weeks) is Rhophylac. It has never contained mercury or thimerosal and the company states that there have been "no confirmed cases of viral transmission". While it's still possible to become Rh sensitized after an injection, IMO, the benefits still greatly outweigh the risks.

More info from the March of Dimes.

vilaro

I'm getting my shot in about two weeks and consider it a normal part of modern pre-natal care. Full stop.

Rubypercy

Thank you OneLittleSpark.  The snooty ignorance above was getting annoying.  It is amazing that they discovered this drug to solve this problem.  In the past your second or third, etc. child might die because of this.   I do not want my children to be affected just because I am negative and fell in love with a postive!   

MrsW80

OneLittleSpark:

MrsW80:

I am just wondering how many of you also have to get a Rhogam shot like me.  Doc told me I have to get it at 28 weeks and I never really thought twice about it until today when I decided to do some research on it and now I'm terrified.  I'm not so scared of getting it after delivery IF my baby is + blood type, but what I'm torn about is receiving it at 28 weeks.  I just can't figure out why we just can't wait until after delivery when we can find out the baby's blood type and if I even need it.  I know my doc is going to give me a problem though and insist I receive it at 28 weeks.  I do know that I will insisist on a mercury free shot no matter what!  So my question is....when are you receiving yours and what are your thoughts on the subject?  Obviously if I were injured or had any bleeding during my pregnancy I would get the shot immediately, but I'm just having a hard time justifying getting it at 28 weeks just because the drug company decided we need it.

I think the UK/Canadian version of BabyCenter explains it the best. They actually give it MORE frequently than in the US - at 28 and 34 weeks.

It is possible for there to be tiny, tiny bleeds that go unnoticed during the third trimester and potentially sensitize you, which could be disastrous to future pregnancies. So, there is a slight chance that it will be too late if you wait to get it after the baby is born. Once you're sensitized, that's it - there's no going back.

It's important to remember that Rhogam is a brand name. There are many other products out there. I'm an OB nurse and the only version I've ever given or received (3 times - 1 per miscarriage and just now at 28 weeks) is Rhophylac. It has never contained mercury or thimerosal and the company states that there have been "no confirmed cases of viral transmission". While it's still possible to become Rh sensitized after an injection, IMO, the benefits still greatly outweigh the risks.

More info from the March of Dimes.

Thank you so much, this has helped immensely! I think I'm just getting too caught up in the crazy google posts on the subject, but I think I will just trust my doctor and def request a thimerosal free shot. I wonder if they even make them with thimerosal any longer?

Scout05

bea0422:

I've never heard of it and my doctor hasn't said anything about it... I say go with your gut. American prenatal care is known for its unnecessary procedures. I would deffinately look at what the procedures are in Europe and Canada and find out what the risks are... If you aren't showing any signs of it being necessarry at this time, I wouldn't worry about it. Obviously it is not something ALL doctors require for every woman so I doubt you are risking your childs life by deciding not to get it until after birth.

 

Did you even Google this before suggesting it to the OP?

 

OneLittleSpark:

I think the UK/Canadian version of BabyCenter explains it the best. They actually give it MORE frequently than in the US - at 28 and 34 weeks.

It is possible for there to be tiny, tiny bleeds that go unnoticed during the third trimester and potentially sensitize you, which could be disastrous to future pregnancies. So, there is a slight chance that it will be too late if you wait to get it after the baby is born. Once you're sensitized, that's it - there's no going back.

It's important to remember that Rhogam is a brand name. There are many other products out there. I'm an OB nurse and the only version I've ever given or received (3 times - 1 per miscarriage and just now at 28 weeks) is Rhophylac. It has never contained mercury or thimerosal and the company states that there have been "no confirmed cases of viral transmission". While it's still possible to become Rh sensitized after an injection, IMO, the benefits still greatly outweigh the risks.

More info from the March of Dimes.

Thank you, OneLittleSpark.

Sheesh people, maybe do a little research before you throw your noses in the air and sniff at us silly Americans and our prenatal care. FFS.

Maybe you've never heard of it because it didn't apply to you and your pregnancy. That doesn't mean it's not neccessary for others or that doctors are just handing it out for the hell of it.

MissLadyTay

nugget0411:

never heard of it....my DH is a pharmacist and has never heard of it either...

must be an american thing.

Oh, for SURE. Only in America do Rh- women fall in love and reproduce with Rh+ men. ::EYEROLL::

maddie789

I was in a minor car accident on Thursday, and they gave me mine early after I was monitored for a few hours in L&D. I never even questioned the procedure. I had already discussed the shot with my OB, and was already planning to have it done at 28 weeks.

ncbelle

I'm pretty anti-intervention but if I were RH- I would get the shot for sure; it's a simple fix for what can be a very dangerous problem.

andrea922

Gastro:

I'm an American who is having my baby in London, England. My blood type is negative and I am scheduled to get the shot this week (my 28th week). It seems to be standard procedure here in London if you are Rh neg.

I had my son in London as well and it is definitely standard procedure there is you are Rh negative. I would do it if it was required.

luu11

Ive heard of it here in Canada but it isnt used unless absolutely neccessary

SugarChick10

I'm getting the shot at my 28 wk appt on Tuesday.  I'm O negative, H is A positive.  Dr said I'll get this shot first, then after the baby is delivered they'll test her blood to see if I need the 2nd shot (I'm working under the assumption I'll need it).  While this is my first child, it isn't the first time I've heard of the shot. 

MegZRN

OneLittleSpark:

MrsW80:

I am just wondering how many of you also have to get a Rhogam shot like me.  Doc told me I have to get it at 28 weeks and I never really thought twice about it until today when I decided to do some research on it and now I'm terrified.  I'm not so scared of getting it after delivery IF my baby is + blood type, but what I'm torn about is receiving it at 28 weeks.  I just can't figure out why we just can't wait until after delivery when we can find out the baby's blood type and if I even need it.  I know my doc is going to give me a problem though and insist I receive it at 28 weeks.  I do know that I will insisist on a mercury free shot no matter what!  So my question is....when are you receiving yours and what are your thoughts on the subject?  Obviously if I were injured or had any bleeding during my pregnancy I would get the shot immediately, but I'm just having a hard time justifying getting it at 28 weeks just because the drug company decided we need it.

I think the UK/Canadian version of BabyCenter explains it the best. They actually give it MORE frequently than in the US - at 28 and 34 weeks.

It is possible for there to be tiny, tiny bleeds that go unnoticed during the third trimester and potentially sensitize you, which could be disastrous to future pregnancies. So, there is a slight chance that it will be too late if you wait to get it after the baby is born. Once you're sensitized, that's it - there's no going back.

It's important to remember that Rhogam is a brand name. There are many other products out there. I'm an OB nurse and the only version I've ever given or received (3 times - 1 per miscarriage and just now at 28 weeks) is Rhophylac. It has never contained mercury or thimerosal and the company states that there have been "no confirmed cases of viral transmission". While it's still possible to become Rh sensitized after an injection, IMO, the benefits still greatly outweigh the risks.

More info from the March of Dimes.

Agree fully. I'm luckily A+, but I'm an OB nurse too. Never had a pt refuse the shot because their doctor fully explained what the shot was and why they were getting it. I would say if you're having second thoughts then you need to talk with your doctor some more and ask for more information. 

kaswanson

Have you loooked into whether your DH is RH negative or positive?  You might be able to get out of the shot if your DH also has a negative blood type!

I am getting the shot on Monday from a pretty conservative/natural midwife... so I'm okay with it.     

RunningGal900

bea0422:

I've never heard of it and my doctor hasn't said anything about it... I say go with your gut. American prenatal care is known for its unnecessary procedures. I would deffinately look at what the procedures are in Europe and Canada and find out what the risks are... If you aren't showing any signs of it being necessarry at this time, I wouldn't worry about it. Obviously it is not something ALL doctors require for every woman so I doubt you are risking your childs life by deciding not to get it until after birth.

Seriously? As pps said, it's not required for ALL women, so it's easy for you to say. I'm RH+ so I can honestly say I don't know much about it, but I have heard of it and know that it's important if you are negative. I know my Dr's office gives it at 28 weeks if you are negative. Before you go around giving such ignorant advice, do a little research. 

OP-You have gotten some good information from most of the posters here. If you are feeling uncomfortable, I would talk to your Dr and have him/her answer all your questions. While I think the internet is great for empowering us, I think it can also scare us away from important medical interventions. If there's something you feel like you don't know, and you're going to worry about it after getting the shot, make sure you talk about it until you are comfortable with the procedure. 

TheMrs923

MissLadyTay:

I got it.  Didn't think twice about it, and I'm extremely thankful to live in a world where we know about Rhesus incompatibility and can do something about it.  There is a risk the baby's blood could mix with yours during delivery.

THIS!  My uncle is deaf because at the time of my grandmother being pregnant with him we didn't know all of the risks to the baby if the blood happened to mix during delivery.  I'll be taking every precaution. 

Edit: Because it's 12:30 and I should be in bed LOL! 

Mahoney1977

Here's my anecdata.

I am type A-negative. At 15 weeks, I had spotting. And by spotting, I mean, there was no blood on my underpants but when I wiped, there was one, tiny, minuscule droplet of blood-tinged discharge. It could easily have gone unnoticed. However, I went to my doctor, and he did an ultrasound to rule out an intrauterine bleed. There was no evidence of any bleed whatsoever.

So that, combined with the fact that I only had the tiniest droplet of blood, made us both think that the Rhogam shot would be unnecessary--after all, how could my baby's blood have mixed with mine, if there was no intrauterine bleed, and only one drop of blood? I figured it had just come from my irritable cervix, so there's no way it could have been my baby's blood.

So instead of getting the Rhogam shot, I opted for a blood test to see if there had been any mixing of blood. I too didn't want to receive the shot if there was no reason to.

Surprise surprise, the next day I received the results: There was FETAL BLOOD IN MY BLOOD. Our blood HAD mixed. Left untreated, this would be disastrous to any subsequent pregnancies of mine. Luckily, I was still in time to receive the Rhogam shot, which I did. 

I so easily could never have noticed the droplet of blood-tinged discharge. Many women probably never do notice, or the blood never even makes its way out of the vagina. And yet there can still be an unnoticed, undiagnosed bleed somewhere, causing your baby's blood to mix with yours.

 THIS is why Rhogam is important at 28 weeks (and, of course, following any vaginal bleeding earlier on). Because the blood can mix at any point, and the antibodies can develop, without  you ever knowing. 

MrsW80

Thank you so much ladies, this is exactly what I needed to hear. I already know my docs stance on the subject, but I never really pushed the issue of "why?" until now, having done a little research. Ill be discussing it further with her and getting the shot as scheduled at 28 weeks. I definitely need it, DH's blood was tested and he's A+ At the time I was irritated they required him to get a blood test but now I see exactly why! Thanks again:)