Rhesus D factor (RhD) negative women's experiences with pregnancy: An interpretive description

Abstract

Background: The development of rh immune globulin (RhIG) for the prevention of Rhesus D (RhD) alloimmunization has significantly decreased the incidence of RhD alloimmunization. Despite long-standing prevention, the experiences of RhD negative women with pregnancy is absent in the literature.

Aim: The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of RhD negative women with pregnancy.

Methods: Utilizing an Interpretive Description approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with RhD negative women about their pregnancies. This study took place within the geographic context of northern British Columbia (BC). The analysis involved a two-cycle approach to identify themes within the data.

Findings: Sixteen RhD negative women that live in northern BC participated in this study. The analysis identified that RhD negative women are uninformed and want to be involved in the decision-making process regarding the prevention of RhD alloimmunization. The themes that emerged from the interview data were communication, information-seeking behaviour, out of sight out of mind, choice and trust, and patient advocacy.

Discussion: The participants in this study described lacking information regarding the prevention of RhD alloimmunization. They sought information to overcome the gaps in knowledge and a desire to be involved in the decision-making process.

Conclusion: RhD negative women want information and to be involved in the decision-making process in the prevention of RhD alloimmunization. Working with RhD negative women to develop decision-aids and/or other educational tools to aid in the decision-making process are warranted.

Keywords: Anti-D; Interpretive description; Pregnancy; Rh-Hr Blood-Group system; RhD negative; Rho(D) immune globulin.