Guidelines for safe blood transfusions during pregnancy & bull; hello healthy

When you are pregnant, you hope to be in good health. You are always watching your food and watching your steps. However, sometimes there are unexpected things that happen, such as severe anemia or other conditions that require a blood transfusion during pregnancy as a solution.

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Blood transfusion is the activity of giving blood from one person to another, also known as blood donation. Usually this procedure is performed to save the life of someone who has lost a lot of blood. In addition, blood donation can be used as an alternative to treat severe anemia. Anemia is common during pregnancy. Symptoms of anemia can include difficulty breathing, tiredness, fainting, headaches, and a fast heartbeat. In severe cases, hemoglobin can decrease beyond normal limits. When that happens you will feel very unwell, dizzy, have difficulty breathing, and chest pain.

READ ALSO: Effects of Iron Deficiency and Anemia on Pregnancy

Various causes need blood transfusion during pregnancy

Blood transfusions can occur early in pregnancy, during pregnancy, and in childbirth. There are several conditions that require pregnant women to get blood transfusions, namely:

A non-emergency situation

You have acute anemia, even before the baby is born. This condition is certainly risky, there is even a chance that when you are slightly injured during childbirth, you may develop severe anemia

You will experience bleeding during childbirth, but the bleeding will stop over time. If you feel weak and unable to care for your baby, you may be offered a blood transfusion. Symptoms that appear can be recognized quickly after you give birth, such as dizziness or shortness of breath when you wake up.

In an emergency situation

Emergency blood transfusions during pregnancy are needed when you experience heavy bleeding. If you do not get blood donations, you can experience serious illness, even severe consequences can cause death. Heavy bleeding can occur when:

Early miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy - the fetus grows outside the uterus
After 24 weeks of pregnancy, this bleeding is usually called antepartum
During childbirth or shortly after delivery, it is also known as postpartum bleeding

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Questions about blood transfusions during pregnancy

When your doctor decides to give you a blood transfusion, you may have some questions about the blood donation. You may worry that the blood you get will affect the development of your fetus when it is done during pregnancy. Here are some questions you can ask your doctor about blood transfusion procedures:

1. How safe is the blood I get?

You shouldn't worry too much. PMI will collect blood donated and its safety is guaranteed by the government. Each hospital already has certain policies to regulate the blood donation supply they have is safe.

2. How does the blood I get match?

Of course, you already know the various types of blood groups. Even from childhood you may have known what blood group you belong to. The doctor may check again, to make it more valid. In addition, you will also be tested for positive or negative rhesus.

3. Do I really have to get a blood transfusion?

Before you decide to have a blood transfusion, make sure you have all the information you need. If you are still in doubt, try to ask your gynecologist again.

4. Can I refuse a blood transfusion?

The choice is always yours. During pregnancy, you may be asked whether you object to having a blood transfusion. If indeed it is for personal reasons and your beliefs, you should tell your gynecologist. The doctor can also arrange anticipatory plans while you are pregnant, the birth process, and the birth itself.

What is the process of blood transfusion during pregnancy?

The process itself is almost like regular blood donation, except that you did it during pregnancy. The blood that is received is a solution to support you and the fetus. Here's an overview:

During a blood transfusion

A cannula or small tube is inserted into a vein in the hand. Then, the donor's blood moves and flows in the blood vessels that receive the donor. A blood supply usually takes three hours to donate. However, for emergencies, transfusions can run quickly. You will also be monitored during blood transfusions.

Even though it is safe to do so, there is no guarantee that you will not get side effects. You may experience serious side effects, although they are almost rare. These symptoms can include difficulty breathing, severe headaches, and decreased blood pressure levels. If you develop such symptoms, the transfusion may be stopped, the situation will be reviewed.

After a blood transfusion

After the transfusion is complete, your hemoglobin will be checked again. this is done to find out whether the blood you receive is enough or not. You may also be asked to stay for a few days or days after the transfusion, depending on your situation. Your obstetrician will also explain the results.