What does Rh blood type negative mean?

Mar 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
The Rh blood group system is another blood group system discovered by scientists after the ABO blood group system. In the Rh system, the most important antigen is the D antigen. Based on the presence or absence of the D antigen on the surface of red blood cells, Rh blood types are classified as Rh positive or Rh negative. Rh positivity refers to the presence of the D antigen on the surface of red blood cells, while Rh negativity indicates its absence.

Generally, Rh-negative blood type refers to the absence of the D antigen on the surface of red blood cells within the Rh blood group system. Detailed analysis is as follows:

The Rh blood group system is another blood type system discovered by scientists following the ABO blood group system. Within the Rh system, the most important antigen is the D antigen. Based on the presence or absence of the D antigen on the surface of red blood cells, the Rh blood type is classified into Rh-positive and Rh-negative. Rh-positive indicates the presence of the D antigen on the red blood cell surface, whereas Rh-negative indicates its absence. The Rh-negative blood type is relatively rare within the population. Individuals with Rh-negative blood can only receive Rh-negative blood and cannot receive Rh-positive blood, as this would trigger a hemolytic reaction. Therefore, extra care must be taken during blood transfusions to ensure compatibility. Rh negativity is determined by a recessive gene. If Rh-positive parents carry the Rh-negative gene and both pass it on to their offspring, the child will exhibit Rh negativity. If one parent is Rh-negative, the likelihood of their child being Rh-negative also increases.

Due to the rarity of Rh-negative blood, individuals with this blood type may face shortages in blood supply when needing a transfusion. Therefore, Rh-negative individuals should try to avoid injuries and bleeding, and whenever possible, store blood at hospitals periodically for emergency use.

Related Articles

View All