What is a potential consequence of Rh incompatibility in pregnancy?

Rh incompatibility occurs when an Rh-negative mother is carrying an Rh-positive fetus, resulting from the inheritance of the Rh factor from the father. A significant consequence of this incompatibility is the hemolysis of fetal red blood cells due to the mother's immune response. When the fetal red blood cells enter the maternal circulation, the mother's immune system may recognize these cells as foreign and produce antibodies against them. This immune response can lead to the destruction (hemolysis) of the fetal red blood cells, causing a condition known as hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN). This disease can result in anemia, jaundice, and other serious complications in the newborn.

The other options presented do not relate to the primary issues caused by Rh incompatibility. For example, the chance of multiple births is unrelated to Rh status, and conditions such as placenta previa and gestational diabetes stem from different pregnancy complications that are not influenced by the Rh factor.