Rh(D) Antibody Screening and Confirmation (Serum)
This test checks for the presence of antibodies against the Rh(D) antigen in your blood, which is important if you are pregnant, have had a blood transfusion, or have had an Rh incompatibility event.
["This test helps prevent complications during pregnancy or blood transfusions by detecting Rh antibodies early."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 23573-9
- Short code
- RHDV Tiss Ql EM
- Synonyms
- RHDV Tiss Ql EM
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-electron
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters for Pregnancy
If you are Rh-negative (lacking the Rh(D) antigen) and your baby is Rh-positive (has the Rh(D) antigen), your body may produce antibodies against the baby’s blood cells. This can cause problems during pregnancy or delivery. This test screens for these antibodies to ensure your baby’s safety.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is tested using a method that detects Rh(D) antibodies. The screening phase identifies if antibodies are present, and the confirmation phase verifies their presence and type. This helps healthcare providers monitor potential risks to your pregnancy.
When You Might Need This Test
You may need this test if you are Rh-negative, have had a previous pregnancy with an Rh-positive baby, have had a miscarriage or stillbirth, or have received blood transfusions. It is also commonly performed during prenatal care for Rh-negative women.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A blood sample will be taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few minutes.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for managing Rh incompatibility, a condition where Rh-negative mothers develop antibodies against Rh-positive fetal blood. Early detection allows healthcare providers to take preventive measures, such as administering Rh immune globulin, to protect your baby’s blood cells.
Short name
Rh Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How often will I need this test?
Can I still have a healthy pregnancy if my test is positive?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy