Final answer:
To determine the presence and quantity of feto-maternal hemorrhage, medical professionals use tests such as the Kleihauer-Betke test and flow cytometry, and examine the placenta after birth. Fetal erythrocytes leaking into the maternal blood during delivery highlights the importance of these assessments to prevent complications from Rh+ fetal cells in Rh-negative mothers.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the presence and quantity of feto-maternal hemorrhage (FMH), various diagnostic tests and examinations can be performed. During the birthing process, it is possible for Rh+ fetal erythrocytes to leak into the maternal blood due to the breakage of the embryonic chorion, which usually separates fetal and maternal circulations. This event requires careful monitoring as it can result in immunologic responses, such as Rh sensitization in Rh-negative mothers, potentially leading to complications in subsequent pregnancies.
One common method to assess the extent of FMH is the Kleihauer-Betke test, which detects fetal cells in the mother's blood by exploiting the differential resistance of fetal hemoglobin to acid elution. Quantitative assessment can be done through flow cytometry, which is more accurate than the Kleihauer-Betke test and can detect even small amounts of fetal blood in the maternal circulation. Additionally, ultrasound and MRI scans can be supportive in identifying hemorrhages. The obstetrician's post-delivery examination of the placenta also plays a crucial role in identifying potential complications, such as retained placental fragments, which can cause postpartum hemorrhage.
Breastfeeding is known to support the process of uterine involution, assisting the uterus in contracting and returning to its pre-pregnancy size, reducing the risk of hemorrhage. Moreover, overall health and proper functioning of the heart and blood vessels, established during early organ development, are vital to managing potential post-birth hemorrhages and establishing normal blood pressure.