An indirect Coombs' test determines whether there are antibodies to the Rh factor in the mother’s blood.

A normal (negative) result means that the mother has not developed antibodies against the fetus's blood. A negative Coombs' test indicates that the fetus is not presently in danger from problems relating to Rh incompatibility.

An abnormal (positive) result means that the mother has developed antibodies to the fetal red blood cells and is sensitized. However, a positive Coombs' test only indicates that an Rh-positive fetus has a possibility of being harmed. A positive test cannot indicate the amount of fetal harm that has occurred or is likely to occur.

If test results show that antibody amounts are increasing during pregnancy, the fetus may be at greater risk of harm.

A fetus who is Rh-negative will not be harmed, even if the mother is sensitized.

No antibodies are detected. This is known as a negative test result.

Direct Coombs test – A negative test result indicates that the blood does not contain antibodies that are having an attachment to the body’s red blood cells.

Indirect Coombs test – A negative test result signifies that the blood is well matched with the blood that is about to be received through transfusion.