Hemophilia A in Females: Considerations for Clinical Management

Abstract

Approximately 50% of female carriers of hemophilia A have factor VIII (FVIII) levels below 0.5 IU/dL and may be categorized as having mild hemophilia. Females with hemophilia may go undiagnosed for years because the most common symptoms – menorrhagia and bleeding after childbirth – also occur in females without hemophilia. Females with hemophilia can exhibit increased bleeding tendencies despite current guidelines of expected, adequate FVIII levels. The cases described illustrate the clinical variability and presentation of hemophilia in females and highlight the importance of a timely diagnosis, effective management, and monitoring. Prophylactic factor replacement therapy is recommended in females with hemophilia, particularly those with joint disease or gynecologic complications. Affected individuals should receive infusion training and education on treatment options, physical activities, the importance of treatment adherence, and recognizing bleeding symptoms warranting treatment. Further study is needed to increase awareness of hemophilia in females and reassess current guidelines for their management and monitoring.