The incidence of significant fetomaternal hemorrhage in patients undergoing cesarean section

Abstract

To determine the incidence of fetomaternal hemorrhage in patients undergoing cesarean section, Kleihauer-Betke tests were performed in the immediate postoperative period on 199 parturients. Some degree of hemorrhage was detected in 18.5% of patients, with 2.5% demonstrating > 30 ml of fetal blood. Comparison of groups on the basis of indication for cesarean delivery revealed no difference in rates of fetal hemorrhage. Because patients with > 30 ml of fetal blood would not be adequately protected from Rh sensitization by the standard 300 µg dose of Rh immune globulin, we recommend screening all Rh-negative patients undergoing cesarean section for the presence of significant fetomaternal hemorrhage.