Rh-immune globulin after amniocentesis for genetic diagnosis

The procedure of amniocentesis during the second trimester of pregnancy for genetic diagnosis creates the potential for Rh sensitization secondary to fetomaternal bleeding. We have advised administration of Rh-immune globulin after such amniocentesis whenever the pregnancy may be Rh-incompatible. Of 56 patients who received Rh-immune globulin there has been only 1 case of Rh sensitization, which occurred in a patient who underwent a second amniocentesis 2 weeks after the first attempt without receiving a second dose of Rh-immune globulin. There have been no developmental problems detected to date which could be ascribed to Rh-immune globulin.