If you are pregnant with a baby affected by hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN), you will need to take the same precautions as any other pregnant mother in terms of diet and exercise. In addition, consider a greater level of self-care to help manage the associated stress and anxiety and extra rest and relaxation to support your high-risk pregnancy.
Your specialized healthcare team will monitor and advise you throughout your pregnancy.
What is HDFN?
Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) is an immune-mediated red blood cell (RBC) disorder that occurs when a baby’s RBCs break down quickly, which is called hemolysis. HDFN is caused by a mismatch between a mother’s and her baby’s blood type (A, B, AB, or O) or Rhesus (Rh) factor (Rh-positive or Rh-negative) during pregnancy. Numerous antibodies to RBC antigens can be linked to HDFN, such as those from the ABO and Rh blood group systems.
Pregnancies with HDFN are classified as high-risk pregnancies, meaning you will be closely monitored by a specialist team. You will receive extra care to ensure you and your baby have the best outcome. However, dietary and exercise advice for women with HDFN-affected pregnancies will be largely the same as for all high-risk pregnancies.
Learn more about HDFN treatment and care
Dietary advice for HDFN pregnancies
A nutritious diet during pregnancy will help support your health as well as that of your developing baby. Avoid the temptation of sugary or fatty junk food and adopt a balanced diet of grains, proteins, vegetables, fruits and dairy.
Protein (meat, eggs, milk, cheese, nuts, soy products) will help with muscle and tissue growth, complex carbohydrates (whole grains, beans, potatoes, corn) will give your body energy and fiber (vegetables, fruit, chickpeas, lentils) can help with digestion. Fat is also an important part of your diet, but avoid too much saturated fats (butter, heavy cream, fatty meat) and trans fat (margarine, pastries made with vegetable shortening).
Vitamins and supplements
Many pregnant women are advised to take vitamin supplements during pregnancy, and HDFN pregnancies are no exception.
· Folic acid: helps prevent birth defects
· Vitamin D: for your baby’s bones and teeth
· Calcium: for bone and teeth strength
· Iron: helps blood production as well as the circulation of oxygen in the body
· Omega-3: supports your baby’s brain and eye development
· Vitamin C: helps your body absorb iron
· Iodine: helps the development of your baby’s brain and nerves
Physical activity during an HDFN pregnancy
Light physical activity in pregnant women has been recognized as providing multiple benefits for both mother and baby, even during HDFN pregnancies. However, high-impact and intense physical activity should be avoided.
Regular aerobic exercise offers physical and emotional benefits and may include walking, swimming, aquarobics, yoga and Pilates. Always check with your doctor before taking up a new sport. Don’t push yourself past your comfort zone. Light exercise during pregnancy will help you maintain your heart health and fitness levels, control your weight and improve your mood.
Here are a few other key things to avoid during pregnancy:
· Alcohol
· Tobacco/nicotine
· Raw meat, including salami and prosciutto and unpasteurised cheese
· Hot tubs/saunas
· Stress and intense anxiety
