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Hamostaseologie 2025; 45(01): 070-079
DOI: 10.1055/a-2462-6609
Review Article

Women and Hereditary Bleeding Disorders

Authors

  • Alessandra Bosch

    1   Department of Haematology, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Eleonore Foundation, Zurich, Switzerland

  • Dehlia Moussaoui

    2   Division of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland

  • Alessandro Casini

    3   Division of Angiology and Hemostasis, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland

Funding A.B. is supported by grants from the “Claus Cramer Foundation,” and “Filling the Gap program” from the University of Zurich, Switzerland. D.M. is supported by a grant from the “Fondation Privée,” Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.
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Abstract

Hereditary bleeding disorders encompass a range of hemostasis defects that impair the blood coagulation process. Although these disorders affect both men and women, research and clinical management have historically been predominantly focused on male patients, particularly those with hemophilia. Consequently, the impact of these disorders on women has been undervalued and frequently overlooked. The intricate relationship between a woman's tendency to bleed and the various gynecological and obstetric processes gives rise to distinctive health challenges for women with hereditary bleeding disorders. Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), excessive bleeding during miscarriages, postpartum hemorrhage, and hemorrhagic ovarian cysts represent some of the most common complications. Despite the high prevalence and significant impact of these symptoms, many women experience delays in diagnosis and treatment, which in turn may result in iron-deficiency anemia, anxiety, influence on reproductive decisions, and a decreased quality of life. This review aims to summarize the distinctive characteristics of hereditary bleeding disorders in women, emphasizing the clinical challenges and hormonal management strategies for HMB.

Keywords

hemophilia carrier - von Willebrand disease - heavy menstrual bleeding - rare bleeding disorders - postpartum hemorrhage


Publication History

Received: 14 October 2024

Accepted: 04 November 2024

Article published online:
19 February 2025

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