I'm one who has thalassemia. Actually, it's beta thalassemia minor, and
is a genetic trait originating from northern & eastern Mediterranean
area. The alpha version originates among asian peoples.

When I was pregnant, my OB ordered me to take iron pills. In a month, he
doubled my dose. (instant cork!) It took 3 mos for me to reach "low
normal". It was years later that I learned about thalassemia, thanks to
my ongoing family history research. I believe my daughter has it, but
neither of my sons does. It's a lifestyle nuisance & iron pills make
symptoms worse. All of my BF'd babies fared very well during their
nursing months / years, thank you. And I had NO problems with milk
supply. I could use one or two naps a day and I'll never be an athlete.
My efforts at any physical exertion have been laughable to say the
least, even when I was skinny!

Genetic counseling is extremely advisable for any couple when both of
them have the trait and they want a child. If that baby inherits the
trait from both parents, the risk is Cooley's Anemia which means serious
deformities and possibly very short life span. Try searching the 'net:
thalassemia.com   and others, for more info.

Phyllis Adamson, IBCLC
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