What is an intrauterine transfusion?

An intrauterine transfusion is a rare, highly specialized procedure performed by foetal medicine professionals to treat foetal anaemia, where a needle is used to administer blood to the unborn baby.

Why are blood transfusions needed for unborn babies?

Unborn babies may require blood transfusions if they are diagnosed with severe anaemia, which can be caused by viruses like parvovirus B19 contracted by the mother.

Why is there an urgent need for blood donors?

The NHS Blood and Transplant service faces an annual shortfall of over 200,000 donors, requiring approximately 1.8 million donations daily to maintain a safe and reliable blood supply.

Home / Health / Baby's Life Saved by In-Utero Blood Transfusions

Baby's Life Saved by In-Utero Blood Transfusions

7 Feb

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Summary

Unborn baby received two blood transfusions while still in the womb.
Mother was unaware such a procedure was even possible.
NHS faces a significant annual shortfall of blood donors.

Baby's Life Saved by In-Utero Blood Transfusions

A mother has shared her experience of her unborn son receiving life-saving blood transfusions while still in the womb. Laura Fricker learned that her son, Sebastian, then 8, needed two intrauterine transfusions due to severe anaemia. She expressed complete surprise, stating she had no prior knowledge of such medical interventions being possible for fetuses.

This uncommon, highly specialized procedure is performed by experienced foetal medicine professionals when a foetus is found to be at risk of anaemia, often detected via ultrasound. Fricker underwent the transfusions at 17 and 19 weeks of pregnancy, involving a needle inserted through her abdomen into Sebastian's bladder to administer the blood.

The story emerges as the NHS Blood and Transplant service appeals for more donors, facing an annual deficit of over 200,000. They require around 1.8 million donations daily to maintain supply. The service is particularly seeking younger donors who can offer a lifetime of donations, emphasizing the profound impact these gifts have on recipients.