Cell-free placental DNA beyond Down syndrome: Lessons learned from fetal RHD genotyping

In this thesis research is presented on cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA), which is present in plasma and serum of pregnant women. This fetal DNA can be used for fetal genotyping, but may also give indirect information on pregnancy and pregnancy outcome.
The research consists of two sections. In the first section the focus is on fetal RHD genotyping with the use of cell-free DNA in maternal blood and hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. In the second section the focus is on cell-free placental DNA levels, mostly acquired through fetal RHD genotyping, and associations with adverse pregnancy outcomes.