Rh Factor

The Rh factor is a protein found on the surface of red blood cells. It is the most important type of antigens-- proteins which can stimulate an immune response-- and is significant in that it determines a person’s blood type. Rh factor is used to determine compatibility between two people’s blood for transfusions and for pregnant women, as incompatibility between a fetus’s and mother’s blood can cause medical complications. A person with Rh-positive blood has the protein, while a person with Rh-negative does not. It is important to be aware of your Rh status to reduce the risk of medical complications and ensure a successful transfusion when needed.