Women with bleeding disorders

Frequently Asked Questions & Facts - Women with Bleeding Disorders

Q1: Don’t bleeding disorders just affect males?
A: No. Bleeding disorders can affect females as well as males.

Q2: Which bleeding disorder most commonly affects women?
A: von Willebrand disorder (vWD) is the most common bleeding disorder. It affects males and females equally, though women tend to have the added issue of menstruation. For more information click here.

Q3: Can females have haemophilia?
A: Haemophilia in females is extremely rare, but it is possible. For more information click here

Q4: Can anything be done to prevent heavy periods?
A: A doctor may prescribe birth control pills to control bleeding. The hormones in these pills cause an increase in von Willebrand factor and factor VIII levels. If heavy periods are bothering you, speak with your doctor or treating health professional.
Last Updated: June 30, 2009