Leaving the hospital with your baby who has been diagnosed with hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) can feel like a big relief, but it can also be a little scary. Until now, you’ve been surrounded by healthcare professionals who are specialized in caring for a newborn with medical needs.
You may have parents or other family and close friends who are willing and able to step in to help care for your new baby. You’ll just need to educate them a little on HDFN-related topics like jaundice, at-home phototherapy and weakened immunity.
What is HDFN?
Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) is an immune-mediated red blood cell 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.
Explaining the effects of HDFN
HDFN is a rare disease, and many people may not ever hear of it until it affects someone they know.
Start by explaining the origins of the disease, walk them through how it affected your pregnancy and delivery and give details on your experience of HDFN and the effect it has had on your baby. Reassure them that the reason your baby has been discharged is that HDFN has been successfully treated. Your baby may still be in recovery mode, but the emergency has passed.
Tips for caring for an HDFN-affected baby
Your newborn may have been born prematurely, experienced symptoms of anemia and jaundice and been treated with phototherapy and blood transfusions. Depending on the severity of HDFN symptoms and treatment, your newborn may be at risk of a relapse in jaundice or anemia. Consider providing clear information on both conditions, how to care for your baby and what to look out for:
Jaundice: Following discharge, you may need to continue at-home phototherapy to treat jaundice, with the use of a Biliblanket. It is also important to carefully monitor your newborn for any signs of a jaundice relapse. Symptoms may include yellow eyes or skin, fussiness, sleepiness or difficulties feeding.
Anemia: Delayed onset anemia is a possibility in babies who have experienced HDFN. Weekly hemoglobin tests will monitor the baby’s red blood cell count. Irritability, fussiness when feeding or sleepiness could be early signs of anemia.
Weakened immunity: Another consequence of HDFN is a decrease in your baby’s immunity, as a result of blood transfusions. Give clear instructions on ways to protect your baby’s health, such as handwashing, bottle sterilization and staying away if they are unwell.
With some clear guidance and reassurance, your trusted circle of family and friends can enjoy some quality time with your new baby and give you a little time to yourself.
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