Understanding hemophilia A in women and girls: Recognizing symptoms, preparing for doctor appointments, and communicating with healthcare providers
Hemophilia A is a genetic bleeding disorder mostly seen in males, but it can also affect females who have hemophilia or carry the gene for it. Knowing the symptoms and how to
manage them is very important for receiving the best care and support throughout your
treatment journey.
Understanding symptoms in females
with hemophilia and carriers
Some females with the hemophilia gene might not have any symptoms. However, some females who have hemophilia or carry the gene might have symptoms similar to males with mild hemophilia. These symptoms can be mild or severe, depending on their factor levels.
Females with bleeding symptoms from hemophilia might have:
- Frequent nosebleeds or mouth bleeds that happen easily and often
- Serious bleeding after an injury
- Bleeding in joints and muscles
- Prolonged bleeding after surgery, like a tooth extraction
Symptoms specific to females
Females with bleeding symptoms from hemophilia may also have:
- Heavy periods
- Bleeding during pregnancy
- Bleeding during childbirth
- Bleeding after childbirth
How to effectively discuss your
symptoms with your doctor
Preparing for appointments and knowing your symptoms and family history are key to talking
with your doctor. Patients should note how often and how bad each symptom is, as this can
help doctors understand their condition better and provide the right care. Writing down any
bleeding episodes, including how long and how intense they were, is especially helpful for
managing symptoms and planning future treatments.
It is important for females with bleeding symptoms from hemophilia to understand their
hemophilia treatment options. These options may include Factor VIII replacement therapy
and non-factor replacement therapies.
Conclusion
Understanding the symptoms of hemophilia in females, preparing for doctor appointments,
and effectively talking with healthcare providers are essential steps in managing this
condition. If you have any questions about your symptoms, speak to your doctor to ensure you
get the best care and support. By staying informed and proactive, you can take control of your
health and live well with hemophilia.
Find your CoRe Manager and connect today!
Sanofi Hemophilia Community Relations and Education (CoRe) Managers offer education to
people living with hemophilia and their families. CoRe Managers provide information about
living with hemophilia and treatment options. Use our handy CoRe Locator to find the CoRe
team member nearest you.
ALTUVIIIO® [antihemophilic factor (recombinant), Fc-VWF-XTEN fusion protein-ehtl] is an injectable medicine that is used to control and reduce the number of bleeding episodes in people with hemophilia A (congenital Factor VIII deficiency).
Your healthcare provider may give you ALTUVIIIO when you have surgery.
What is the most important information I need to know about ALTUVIIIO?
Do not attempt to give yourself an injection unless you have been taught how by your healthcare provider or hemophilia center. You must carefully follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the dose and schedule for injecting ALTUVIIIO so that your treatment will work best for you.
Who should not use ALTUVIIIO?
You should not use ALTUVIIIO if you have had an allergic reaction to it in the past.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before using ALTUVIIIO?
Tell your healthcare provider if you have had any medical problems, take any medications, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, supplements, or herbal medicines, are breastfeeding, or are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
What are the possible side effects of ALTUVIIIO?
You can have an allergic reaction to ALTUVIIIO. Call your healthcare provider or emergency department right away if you have any of the following symptoms: difficulty breathing, chest tightness, swelling of the face, rash, or hives.
Your body can also make antibodies called “inhibitors” against ALTUVIIIO. This can stop ALTUVIIIO from working properly. Your healthcare provider may give you blood tests to check for inhibitors.
The common side effects of ALTUVIIIO are headache and joint pain.
These are not the only possible side effects of ALTUVIIIO. Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or does not go away.
Please see full Prescribing Information.
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