I. What is "panda blood"?

The term "panda blood" is used in China to describe the Rh(D)-negative blood type. Erythrocytes in human blood form more than 40 blood group systems, with ABO and Rh being the two blood group systems that are the most closely related to human blood transfusion. If there is a D antigen on the erythrocytes, it is called Rh(D) positive; if not, it is Rh(D) negative. The distribution of Rh(D) negative blood groups varies significantly among ethnic groups.

However, a "panda blood type" report for pregnant women does not necessarily mean that they have the "panda blood type".

That's because under normal circumstances, the Rh(D) blood type testing is only used for screening and not confirming a diagnosis. When the D antigen on the erythrocytes has a weak or incomplete D, the screening results are often negative, while the confirmed result may be Rh (D) positive.

Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant women who have a Rh(D) negative report go to a regular medical institution that can offer Rh(D) confirmation tests for diagnosis.

II. What are the risks for Rh(D) negative pregnant women?

1. Rh (D) negative pregnant women who have been pregnant before (including planned and accidental pregnancies), received blood transfusion therapy, or received a prenatal diagnostic puncture may stimulate the production of IgG class anti-D antibodies, which can enter the fetus through the placenta, causing fetal hemolysis. This may result in fetal anemia, edema, and even miscarriage or stillbirth. Neonatal hemolytic jaundice may occur after the birth of a baby.

2. Since it is commonly known as "panda blood", Rh(D) negative blood resources are relatively scarce. When pregnant women need an emergency blood transfusion due to blood loss, it is relatively difficult to guarantee a blood source.

III. What can Rh(D) negative pregnant women do?

1. Receive standardized pre-pregnancy and prenatal examinations to learn about fetal growth and development as soon as possible. The Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children (CQHCWC) offers comprehensive services.

2. Receive a standardized blood transfusion clinic follow-up consultation, as well as dynamic monitoring of anti-D antibody titer changes. The blood transfusion department of the CQHCWC offers related services.

IV. Can Rh(D) negative women have a second or third child?

As long as you can carry out standardized monitoring and treatment under the guidance of a blood transfusion doctor, most Rh(D) negative women can have a second or third child, but regular follow-ups are very important.

The blood transfusion clinic of the CQHCWC:

Address: Room 6, Area C, 2nd Floor, Outpatient Clinic, Ranjiaba Branch of the CQHCWC

Service hours: 2-5:30 pm on Wednesdays

Tel: 023-60354575