Implications for a Child when Both Partners carry Haemoglobin Lepore Thalassaemia
This is an unusual combination that has not been reported in the literature. The following information is based on general experience with these types of thalassaemia, and available scientific knowledge.
This couple could have a child with beta thalassaemia intermedia

In each pregnancy, there are three possibilities.
•	The child may not carry any haemoglobin disorder.
•	The child may carry haemoglobin Lepore thalassaemia. This is harmless. 
•	The child may inherit haemoglobin Lepore thalassaemia from both parents. This child would have a serious inherited anaemia called beta thalassaemia intermedia.
In each pregnancy there is a 3 out of 4 chance of a healthy child, and a 1 out of 4 risk of child with beta thalassaemia intermedia.
Beta thalassaemia intermedia is an inherited anaemia that starts in childhood. Some people with thalassaemia intermedia are healthy all their life. Most are anaemic and need extra care. Some need regular blood transfusions. Current scientific knowledge suggests that a child who inherits haemoglobin Lepore thalassaemia from both parents would have a mild type of thalassaemia intermedia.  However, we cannot reliably predict whether any given couple could have children with mild or more severe thalassaemia intermedia.
It is possible to test a baby for beta thalassaemia major or intermedia early in pregnancy. This couple should see an expert counsellor in haemoglobin disorders to discuss their options, before starting a pregnancy, or as early in pregnancy as possible.
Counselling for haemoglobin disorders is provided in your area by: