Many women and girls are affected by bleeding disorders. Some girls are diagnosed when they are young, others in their teenage years. It can come as a shock and be difficult to grasp at first.
The most common bleeding disorder among girls and women is von Willebrand disorder (VWD). This condition varies in severity, and in its milder form often goes undetected, unless unusual bleeding occurs. Girls and others assigned female at birth with VWD often experience heavy or prolonged periods, but the majority live completely normal lives.
Periods
If you have a bleeding disorder, your period may impact you negatively in a number of ways. It may:
- cause you a lot of pain
- interfere with your school or social life
- cause ‘flooding’ or leakage
If you have a bleeding disorder and experience heavy periods you should be monitored by a medical team, including:
- a gynaecologist
- a haematologist experienced in treating bleeding disorders
- and a family doctor or paediatrician
You may feel particularly tired as a result of heavy periods. Blood contains iron, so your tiredness may be linked to anaemia (low levels of iron). Your doctor may prescribe iron supplements to help you overcome the symptoms.
Treatment
The main types of treatment are:
Desmopressin (DDAVP) is an effective treatment for Type 1 vWD, for menorrhagia and minor bleeds, and for some Type 2 vWD. It is a synthetic hormone that can be given by nosespray or injection.
Tranexamic acid (in tablets or syrup form) is useful for reducing the blood flow and reducing the body’s natural process of breaking down a clot.
Oral contraceptive pills (the pill) can help regulate periods an make them lighter and less painful. Other contraceptive methods, such as Depo Provera and Zoladec injections, are also used to manage heavy periods.
Above all, being prepared will help you feel confident. By carrying an extra bag containing pads and wipes, you won’t ever get caught out! Also, it’s a good idea to choose higher absorbencies of towels or tampons. Read the leaflet carefully before using tampons, and wash your hands before putting it in. Tampons need changing every 4-8 hours, and remember to remove the last one at the end of your period.
Other Issues you may face
Easy Bruising
You may be used to bruising easily because of your condition. Teenagers often feel more conscious of bruises because of the attention they can bring. During your teenage years, changes in your body — like rapid growth and increased physical activity — can mean more bumps and bruises. If you can, try not to let them worry you too much. It might help to explain your condition to close friends, so they understand and support you — and you won’t have to answer the same questions every time.
Nosebleeds
People who get frequent nosebleeds might worry about other people noticing the clots they leave. However, try not to remove them, and tilt your head forward not backwards. Using an ice pack, cold compress or bag of frozen food on your nose and neck will help. Pinch your nose until the bleeding stops. Avoid bending over or blowing your nose as this may start it again.
Joint or Muscle Bleeds
If you have a severe form of bleeding disorder such as type 3 vWD, you may at times get spontaneous bleeds into muscles and joints, your internal organs or digestive system, caused by no particular knock or injury. These bleeds will need urgent treatment, whether at your treatment centre or at home if you have learned how to do so yourself.
Mouth Bleeds
If you frequently get mouth bleeds, you may feel sensitive about the taste or smell of blood. Carrying mouth fresheners or chewing gum can help. You may want to contact your centre to advise you about special mouthwashes to help stop the bleeding. Ice pops and ice lollies can also help.