An intrauterine fetal blood transfusion (IUT) is a specialised prenatal procedure used to treat severe fetal anemia due to Rh incompatibility or other hemolytic diseases. At Nakshatra Clinic, our fertility and maternal–fetal medicine team provides safe, precise, ultrasound-guided transfusions to protect the baby’s growth, prevent hydrops, and reduce risks like preterm birth or stillbirth.
How the Procedure Works
Pre-Procedure Assessment
Doppler ultrasound, amniocentesis & fetal blood sampling to confirm anemia severity.
Maternal Preparation
Local/general anesthesia, sterile prep & comfort meds to prevent infection and pain.
Fetal Stabilization
Medication may reduce fetal movement for precise needle placement.
Ultrasound-Guided Transfusion
Needle into umbilical vein or fetal abdomen; Rh-negative, type-matched blood given.
Blood Compatibility
Cross-matched, irradiated, CMV-safe red cells used to replace destroyed RBCs.
Monitoring & Follow-up
Observation for 1–3 hrs; antibiotics/tocolytics if needed; repeat transfusions as advised.
Safety & Risks
Low risk with experts; rare complications include infection, bleeding, or preterm labor.
Goal & Outcomes
Treat severe anemia, prevent hydrops, and support safe growth until delivery.
Why Choose Us for IUT?
Experienced Fetal Team: Maternal–fetal medicine specialists skilled in high-risk care.
Real-time Ultrasound: Precise targeting for safer, effective transfusions.
Certified Blood Bank: Rh-negative, type-matched red cells with strict screening.
Privacy & Support: Compassionate counseling and confidential care for families.
Rh Disease Management: Focused protocols to reduce fetal complications.
Same-day Discharge: Most mothers go home after observation and instructions.
Who Is Involved in Your Care?
Fetal Medicine Specialist
Plans and performs the transfusion with ultrasound guidance.
Obstetrician/Gynecologist (OBGYN)
Coordinates high-risk pregnancy care and delivery planning.
Anesthesiologist
Ensures maternal comfort and safety during the procedure.
Neonatologist
Prepares for newborn care if early delivery is required.
Transfusion Medicine/Blood Bank
Supplies screened, compatible red cells for the fetus.
Counseling & Support
Guidance before/after procedure and ongoing emotional support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
An IUFBT delivers blood directly to the fetus to treat severe fetal anemia, most often from Rh incompatibility. Healthy red cells restore oxygen-carrying capacity and reduce complications before birth.
Fetuses with moderate–severe anemia due to Rh sensitization, fetal hydrops, or blood disorders. Ultrasound and blood tests confirm the need and timing of the procedure.
When Doppler or fetal sampling shows significant anemia, hydrops, or risks from Rh disease. Timely intervention supports safer outcomes in high-risk pregnancies.
With experienced specialists and sterile, ultrasound-guided technique, IFBT is generally safe. Rare risks include infection, bleeding, or premature labor; your team will mitigate these.
Regular check-ups with ultrasound (and labs when advised). Medicines may prevent infection or preterm labor. Some babies need repeat transfusions until safe delivery.
Most mothers are observed for 1–3 hours post-procedure and go home the same day. Fetal movement typically resumes within a few hours depending on medications used.
It reduces fetal death from anemia, prevents hydrops, supports normal growth, and helps pregnancies reach term more safely—especially in Rh-sensitized mothers.