When is Rho-gam typically administered to Rh-negative mothers?

Rho-gam, or Rh immunoglobulin, is administered to Rh-negative mothers primarily to prevent the development of Rh sensitization during pregnancy. This treatment is crucial in cases where there is a potential mixing of maternal and fetal blood, which can occur during certain situations such as trauma, invasive procedures, or delivery.

The correct timing for the administration of Rho-gam includes giving it around 28 to 29 weeks of gestation as a prophylactic measure, and it is also given after any event that may cause fetal blood cells to enter the maternal circulation, such as a miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or procedures like amniocentesis. This dual approach ensures that any Rh-positive red blood cells that may have entered the maternal blood are neutralized before the mother’s immune system can create antibodies against them.

While Rho-gam is indeed given at the time of delivery for Rh-negative mothers who have delivered an Rh-positive infant, it is not limited to this time point. Waiting until delivery alone would not provide preemptive protection for the mother during the course of her pregnancy. Similarly, administering Rho-gam during the first trimester is not standard practice, as the risks of sensitization are lower and the routine use of it