Antigen E

[Adreamz]

Tody my midwife tells me that I have antigen E in my blood, but hasn't really explained anything. All she's told me is that I need bloods every 4weeks and they will need to test the cord blood at birth. This is my second pregnant and I didn't have any problems with my first. Can anyone give me any information?

Ok, after a bit of reading around, it sounds like DH has an antigen present in his blood which you don't.

Pregnancy 1 - DH passes this antigen on to your baby, so you generate antibodies to it.

Pregnancy 2 - DH may or may not pass on the antigen to your second child. testing the cord blood will determine if this antigen is present in your baby, and if anything needs to be done to you or baby.

4 weekly bloods are likely to be about checking your antibody levels to antigen E aren't climbing fast - indicating your body is trying to attack your baby.

The most well know case of this is Rh+/- issue, and the anti-D injections given in this case. Other incompatibilities (such as E), are less serious - hence no current treatment, just monitoring.

I'm NOT medically qualified, just scientific and have done some reading for you. I might have it all wrong, but this si my best understanding of the situation.

Adreamz I have this too. I had it with my first and there were no problems at the birth or with DD. I obviously have it with my 2nd and just have a monthly blood test to check levels. Nextphase has explained it well and it really isn't a big problem although could scupper plans for a home birth or a midwife led birth as they tend to want you in hospital to test cord blood on babies arrival. Good luck with it all.

Thank you both for your reply. I guess I got a little panicky. My next blood test is Monday so I'm hoping that it should ease my worries. Had a scan today and all looks good.
Thanks you once again
Axx