I’m pretty sure my doctor said I had “antibody E” or somesuch when I spoke on the phone with her. And the temptation provided too rich because I found myself, not ten minutes ago, Googling (or rather, Blingo-ing) “antibody e”. And.. well, hmm. Here is what I found. This is the part that caught my eye in particular:
The baby must be followed closely with specialized tests to watch for signs of hemolytic anemia. Most likely, your doctor will order additional ultrasounds and perhaps amniocentesis to check the amniotic fluid for signs of hemolytic anemia. If the baby begins to show signs of hemolytic anemia, certain treatment options are available. In some cases, the baby may be given a blood transfusion while still in your uterus. In other situations, the baby may be delivered earlier than the original due date so that it can receive necessary medical treatment in the nursery.
Uhm, NO! Oh hells naw. Especially the whole “amniocentesis” part, thought I’m no too fond of the whole “transfusion while still in your uterus” part either. Actually, you know, the whole thing kinda sucks and is making me feel more than a little panicky at the moment.
Oh and it would appear the most likely reason this whole thing cropped up in the first place is LIAM. Chances are, he gave me the antibody. Sweet of him, no? Way to break the mold after yourself, kid.
(of course chances are things are going to be just fine as this isn’t a particularly threatening antibody to have. BUT STILL.)
{ 4 comments }
jeanie (5 comments.) 10.17.07 at 9:05 pm
Oh I have just done some reading on this. I knew a bit about it as I am O negative, and during my pregnancy was advised to have a shot straight after birth to stop such antibodies developing.
I assume the amnio will advise what blood type the baby is, and therefore if it will need further assistance both before and after birth.
A boy I went to school with was his mother’s 4th child, and the only one affected - he got a total transfusion at birth and did not have any of the truly scary things I have just read about online.
Good luck on whatever happens through the pregnancy - I hope that you get good medical and emotional support through it all…
Loralee (131 comments.) 10.17.07 at 10:57 pm
Oh, dear. I am so sorry…I hope that everything goes well.
Kathie (19 comments.) 10.18.07 at 1:38 pm
That’s a lot of ifs and mays. I’m still gutted that you are going through the worry and stress of this. Try and stay positive though! I will do so for you as well!!
Michele (27 comments.) 10.23.07 at 8:35 pm
I know this is a week late but I am finally getting some time to myself to read blogs. I just wanted you to know that I’m thinking about you and know exactly what you’re going through.
My body makes all sorts of crazy antibodies (CDE and G - G being the biggest asshole of the group). Bad things happened to our family as a result - but it’s not always the case. If I had any advice it would be to educate yourself and find a great perinatologist.
I found the high risk board on BabyCenter afterwards - there’s a group of woman calling themselves ISO Moms who are very very knowledgeable. That message thread is getting really long, but if you have the time to read through it you’ll learn a lot.
Time to play some more catch-up. Take care!
Comments on this entry are closed.