Fetal blood sampling (FBS) is the collecting of fetal blood directly from the umbilical cord or fetus. The fetal blood is tested for signs of anemia, Opens dialog and other blood problems. FBS is also known as cordocentesis or percutaneous umbilical cord blood sampling.
If you are Rh-sensitized, Opens dialog and you are carrying an Rh-positive fetus, your immune system, Opens dialog can attack the fetus's red blood cells. FBS is used to look at a fetus's red blood cell count and oxygen level. It also looks for signs that your immune system is destroying fetal red blood cells.
FBS is performed in a hospital's outpatient surgery department. You will probably be given a sedative, Opens dialog to reduce your and the fetus's movement during the FBS procedure.
The fetus may be given an injection of medicine that temporarily stops movement.
Ultrasound is used to guide a needle through your belly into an umbilical vein in the umbilical cord, Opens dialog.
A small amount of blood is withdrawn into the needle and collected.
You may be given more medicine during FBS. These may include antibiotics to prevent infection or medicine to prevent preterm labor (tocolytic drugs).
Fetal blood tests show the oxygen level, red blood cell condition, and red blood cell count. This helps your doctor plan the best treatment for you during your pregnancy.
If the effects of Rh sensitization are severe and the fetus has severe anemia, a fetal blood transfusion may be done right away. Future transfusions may be scheduled to keep the fetus healthy until it can be delivered safely.
Information about Fetal Blood Sampling (FBS) During Pregnancy
Current as of: April 30, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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