A mother and father’s genes play a significant role in their baby’s development; from growth in the womb, to blood type. From pregnancy through to their adult life, your child’s blood type is one of the most important pieces of genetic information to be aware of. Here, we simplify the science behind blood type and explain why more parents-to-be should identify their baby’s type before birth. How
is blood type determined? Firstly, a person’s type can fall within one of four main blood groups: A, B, AB, and O. These groups identify the different antigens found on red blood cells and antibodies found in plasma. For example, blood group A has A antigens on the red blood cells with anti-B antibodies in the
plasma. As well as falling into the A, B, AB or O group, blood can contain a protein called the RhD antigen. This Rh factor determines whether your blood type is positive (+) or negative (-)[1]. So in total, there are 8 blood types: How is blood type inherited? To paint a clearer picture, this chart shows your baby’s potential blood type based on those of their parents: Maternal blood type during pregnancy
- Ginny Harrington, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Nurse Pregnancy complications can also arise from ABO incompatibility between mother and baby. For example, if the mother is O+ but the baby is A+. In this case, the mixing of blood types can cause jaundice in the baby. To catch potential incompatibility early, all pregnant women will receive a maternal blood test during pregnancy by their doctor. Why should you know your baby’s blood type? Blood type and medical
treatments Blood type and future health In 2012, a study found that those with blood type AB have a 23% higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease compared to those with blood type O[4]. Those with AB blood type may have a higher risk of stroke than other blood types according to a 2014 study[5]. This could be due to higher levels of clotting protein in this type. A 2015 study found that those with type O blood were at a decreased risk of developing type 2 diabetes[6]. The American Cancer Society has identified that those with type A blood have a higher chance of developing stomach cancer, for reasons that are not yet understood[7]. In the case of all studies above and more, it’s important to remember that all research is still in preliminary stages. No matter your genetic predisposition, healthy lifestyle choices are key to prevent future illnesses. Taking the blood type test Speak to our Customer Care team on +41 21 948 2 948 or email to learn more. References: At what point does a fetus have its own blood?Blood cells and vessel production in structures outside the embryo proper called the yolk sac, chorion, and connecting stalk begin about 15 to 16 days following fertilization. Development of these circulatory elements within the embryo itself begins approximately 2 days later.
Does the fetus have the same blood as the mother?The placenta is the organ which forms in utero and through which oxygen and nutrients pass from the mother to the baby. Blood, however, does not usually pass through the placental membrane during the pregnancy unless there is a miscarriage, but blood mixing can occur during childbirth.
Does the blood system of the fetus come from the father?Well, your blood is definitely all your own--your body produced it. But because of how the genetics of blood type works, it could seem like you have your mom's blood type, your dad's blood type, or a mix of the two. For every gene, you get two copies -- one from your mom and one from your dad.
|