Non-evidence-based use of Rho(D) immune globulin for threatened abortion by family practice and obstetric faculty physicians

OBJECTIVE: To examine the practice patterns and differences between faculty members in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/G) and family practice (FP) residency programs in administering Rho(D) immune globulin (RhIG) for threatened abortion. STUDY DESIGN: A questionnaire was mailed to 50% (222) of all FP residencies and 100% (267) of OB/G programs in the United States. The obstetric curriculum coordinator at each FP residency and the director of obstetrics or maternal-fetal medicine at each OB/G residency were asked to respond. A total of 156 (70%) FP questionnaires and 186 (70%) OB/G questionnaires were returned after two mailings. RESULTS: Seventy-six percent of FP faculty and 85% of OB/G faculty reported giving RhIG in threatened abortion. Physicians with advanced training were more likely to recommend giving RhIG. CONCLUSION: Most FP and OB/G residency faculty report using RhIG in threatened abortion. The practice has become part of the medical culture despite the lack of supporting evidence and should be revaluated in that light.