Lab Reports Decoded

Rh Negative Pregnancy Explained: What the Coombs Test Means (Video)

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Read the full written guide: Blood Group and Rh Report: Rh Negative Mother and the ICT Test →

If you're pregnant and Rh negative, you might wonder why a doctor orders an indirect Coombs test. This video breaks down what the test looks for, what the results mean, and the steps you should take right now. We keep it practical, no medical jargon, just clear guidance on keeping your report handy, reporting any bleeding, and understanding when anti-D may be needed. For the full details, read the blog post on thecareonline.com. This video is for information only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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Transcript

Rh negative? Here's why your doctor orders a Coombs test.

Rh negative? Here's why your doctor orders a Coombs test.

Rh Negative Pregnancy

Learn how a simple test keeps future babies safe.

Blood group basics

Each red cell has tiny badges: A, B, both or none, and a D badge that tells Rh status. These are set by your genes and never change.

Why ICT needed

If you're Rh negative, the baby can inherit a positive D badge from dad. When blood mixes after a fall, miscarriage or birth, your immune system may start making anti-D antibodies.

When to test

Your doctor will usually run the indirect Coombs test at your first visit and again around 28 weeks.

Reading ICT result

A negative ICT means no antibodies were found, reassuring. A positive result shows antibodies; the lab will name them and may give a titre like 1:8, where higher numbers mean more antibody.

Anti-D decision

Anti-D is a medicine that mops up stray Rh-positive cells before your body reacts. It’s given after certain events, but it can’t undo sensitisation that already happened.

Practical steps now

Keep a photo of your report and the original in your antenatal file. Ask about the father’s blood group, if he’s also Rh negative, the baby will likely be Rh negative too. Book the ICT as your doctor advises and report any bleeding or fall within 72 hours.

When to call doctor

Call your doctor right away if you notice vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, a fall, or reduced baby movement. After birth, seek help if the newborn has yellow skin, pale color, or won’t feed.

The one thing to remember

The key takeaway: always keep your Rh report handy and contact your doctor within 72 hours of any bleeding, fall, or abdominal trauma.

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Read the full guide

Read the complete guide on thecareonline.com. This is general information, not medical advice.

Nothing on The Care Online is medical advice. Traditional practices are described as tradition, not as fact. Take a persistent or serious concern to a qualified professional. See how videos and posts are made on our methodology page.