Critical Intersection Of Women's Health And Bleeding Disorders

Bleeding disorders in women often go undiagnosed, impacting health and quality of life. Raising awareness can lead to early detection, proper care, and improved well-being for those affected.

Critical Intersection Of Women's Health And Bleeding Disorders

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{By: Dr Rohini Dange}

Women have made remarkable strides across social, political, and cultural spheres. Amid these achievements, it’s crucial to shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of women’s health: Bleeding Disorders.

The World Health Organization (WHO) pays particular attention to women’s health on account of certain biological and social considerations. Some primary health problems among women are heart-related disorders, breast and ovarian cancer, gynaecological conditions, and mental illness, anxiety and depression. Furthermore, certain conditions like stroke, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease tend to afflict women more than men, which calls for more focused research as well as specialised health care services for women.

Focus On Bleeding Disorders

Women's health includes a special area of medicine that focuses on finding and treating health issues that affect a woman's body and mind. One important issue that doesn't get talked about enough is bleeding disorders. These disorders can show up as very heavy periods, often getting nosebleeds, and bleeding a lot after an operation.

Von Willebrand Disease And Beyond

Von Willebrand Disease (VWD) is the most common inherited  bleeding disorder in females, which is characterised by an absence of specific clotting protein  in the blood. Other serious but less common disorders are Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) wherein blood clots are formed in the microcirculation or hemophilia, which is a genetic condition where blood doesn’t clot normally. Some of these disorders are passed from parents to children, while others can be attributed to a number of medical problems including liver disease that inhibits clotting or vitamin K deficiency, which is essential for clot formation. Prenatal screening is available for women who are carriers of the hemophilia gene to assess the risk of the fetus being affected. This early diagnosis is key to managing and preparing for any health issues the child might face.

Managing Menstrual Health

Every woman experiences her menstrual cycle differently, with cycles varying in how long they last and how often they occur. This is even more difficult for women suffering from bleeding disorders because they often have more complicated problems to deal with. These symptoms indeed require some thought! For instance, there are various treatment forms, which may include medication for stopping excessive bleeding, replacement therapy with blood clotting factors or hormonal treatment for menstrual bleeding control. Timely diagnosis and proper treatment will reduce the complications and improve the quality of life and prevent serious health problems.

Innovative Treatments And Therapies

Different approaches are available for treating bleeding disorders, allowing for the effective management of symptoms. These therapies as and when appropriate helps regulate or stop bleeding according to dosage in patients with bleeding issues. Further can be optimised with advanced treatments that can close wounds. Patients experiencing the more difficult muscle and joint bleeds may benefit from a more structured approach to easing the discomforts. These approaches include immobilising the affected site to prevent damage, bracing the part for stabilisation, icing to cool and reduce swelling, and further movement to increase range of motion and strengthen the muscles. These treatments collectively help manage the condition and improve quality of life over time.

The later phases of physical therapy for joint and muscle problems are often the most beneficial. Specific exercise programs designed to build muscle improves body function overall and helps decrease muscle bleeds, as well. Strengthening the core and pelvic muscles is essential for maintaining health over time.

ABCs Of Managing Bleeding Disorders

Women’s experience with bleeding disorders can be managed through a journey of three bold steps after the treatment or correction with replacement therapies and medicines.

•  A = Acceptance and Awareness: Realising that bleeding disorders should be addressed properly and acknowledged.
• B = Breathing and Exercises: Therapeutic exercises directed to improve one’s health.
• C = Core and Capacity: Active targeted physical exercises directed toward building strength and resilience.

We must remember that awareness and improving healthcare for women living with bleeding disorders remains a priority. Through ongoing education, innovative treatment plans, and supportive care, we can ensure that all women have the opportunity to lead healthier and more empowered lives.

The author, Dr Rohini Dange, is a Consultant Physiotherapist at Sahyadri Hospitals in Pune

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]