Genetic counselling is important when a marriage is planned between a
Answer Details
Genetic counseling is important when a marriage is planned between an Rh-negative (Rh-) woman and an Rh-positive (Rh+) man. This is because when an Rh- woman and an Rh+ man have a child, there is a chance that the child will inherit the Rh+ factor from the father and the Rh- factor from the mother. If this happens, the mother's immune system may produce antibodies against the Rh+ factor in the child's blood, which can cause hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) in subsequent pregnancies. Genetic counseling can help these couples understand their risks and options for preventing HDN, such as Rh immunoglobulin injections. It is important to note that genetic counseling can be helpful for any couple planning to have children, regardless of their Rh status.