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Maas DPMSM, Saes JL, Blijlevens NMA, Cnossen MH, den Exter PL, van der Heijden OWH, Kruis IC, Meijer K, Peters M, Schutgens REG, van Heerde WL, Nieuwenhuizen L, Schols SEM. High prevalence of heavy menstrual bleeding in women with rare bleeding disorders in the Netherlands: retrospective data from the RBiN study. J Thromb Haemost 2023; 21:2726-2734. [PMID: 37517479 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtha.2023.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is associated with a reduced quality of life and limitations in social and physical functioning. Data on HMB in women with rare bleeding disorders (RBDs), including coagulation factor deficiencies and fibrinolytic disorders, are scarce. OBJECTIVES To analyze the prevalence, severity, and treatment of HMB in Dutch women with an RBD. METHODS The Rare Bleeding Disorders in the Netherlands (RBiN) study included 263 patients with an RBD from all 6 hemophilia treatment centers (October 2017-November 2019). In this analysis, data of 111 women aged ≥16 years were studied. According to the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis bleeding assessment tool, HMB symptoms were scored from 0 (no/trivial) to 4 (severe symptoms requiring medical intervention). HMB was defined as a score ≥1. Age at RBD diagnosis was extracted from patient files. RESULTS HMB was reported by 80% of women (89/111) and was more prevalent in women with a fibrinolytic disorder (33/35; 94%) than in women with a coagulation factor deficiency (56/76; 74%) (P = .011). Of the 89 women with HMB, 82% (n = 73) ever required treatment. Multiple treatment modalities were frequently used, both in severe and mild deficiencies. Hormonal treatment was mostly used (n = 64; 88%), while antifibrinolytics were prescribed less frequently (n = 18; 25%). In women with HMB since menarche (n = 61; 69%), median age at RBD diagnosis was 28 years (IQR, 14-41). CONCLUSION HMB is common in women with RBDs. Women with mild deficiencies also frequently reported HMB. Only a minority of women were treated with hemostatic agents. A significant diagnostic delay was observed after the onset of HMB symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique P M S M Maas
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Hemophilia Treatment Center Nijmegen-Eindhoven-Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Joline L Saes
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Hemophilia Treatment Center Nijmegen-Eindhoven-Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Nicole M A Blijlevens
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Marjon H Cnossen
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Erasmus MC Sophia Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Paul L den Exter
- Department of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | - Ilmar C Kruis
- Netherlands Hemophilia Society, Nijkerk, the Netherlands
| | - Karina Meijer
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Marjolein Peters
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Roger E G Schutgens
- Center for Benign Hematology, Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Van Creveldkliniek, University Medical Center Utrecht and University Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Waander L van Heerde
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Hemophilia Treatment Center Nijmegen-Eindhoven-Maastricht, the Netherlands; Enzyre BV, Novio Tech Campus, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Laurens Nieuwenhuizen
- Hemophilia Treatment Center Nijmegen-Eindhoven-Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Hematology, Maxima Medical Center, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia E M Schols
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Hemophilia Treatment Center Nijmegen-Eindhoven-Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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Abstract
Inherited platelet disorders (IPDs) comprise a heterogeneous group of entities that manifest with variable bleeding tendencies. For successful treatment, the underlying platelet disorder, bleeding severity and location, age, and sex must be considered in the broader clinical context. Previous information from the AWMF S2K guideline #086-004 (www.awmf.org) is evaluated for validity and supplemented by information of new available and future treatment options and clinical scenarios that need specific measures. Special attention is given to the treatment of menorrhagia and risk management during pregnancy in women with IPDs. Established treatment options of IPDs include local hemostatic treatment, tranexamic acid, desmopressin, platelet concentrates, and recombinant activated factor VII. Hematopoietic stem cell therapy is a curative approach for selected patients. We also provide an outlook on promising new therapies. These include autologous hematopoietic stem cell gene therapy, artificial platelets and nanoparticles, and various other procoagulant treatments that are currently tested in clinical trials in the context of hemophilia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Bargehr
- Department of Paediatrics 1, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ralf Knöfler
- Department of Paediatric Haemostaseology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Werner Streif
- Department of Paediatrics 1, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Sidonio RF, Lavin M. Diagnostic pitfalls and conundrums in type 1 von Willebrand disease. Hematology Am Soc Hematol Educ Program 2022; 2022:618-23. [PMID: 36485079 DOI: 10.1182/hematology.2022000389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Most people with von Willebrand disease (VWD) have a partial quantitative deficiency of plasma von Willebrand factor (VWF) or type 1 VWD. In contrast to type 2 and type 3 VWD, laboratory assays will not always establish the diagnosis in type 1 VWD. This is because plasma VWF levels in type 1 VWD, especially those with levels closer to 50 IU/dL, overlap with the general population. Assessment is further complicated by increased plasma VWF levels in response to physiologic stressors or aging. Diagnosis of those with type 1 VWD with plasma VWF levels 30 to 50 IU/dL (previously referred to as "low VWF") requires expert assessment of bleeding phenotype as well as an understanding of the limitations of both bleeding assessment tools (BATs) and laboratory testing. Using the available evidence and highlighting research gaps, we discuss common dilemmas facing providers relating to assessment of adolescents, transition from pediatrics to adult care, and older individuals with type 1 VWD.
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Kendel NE, Zia A, Rosenbaum LE, Stanek JR, Haamid FW, Christian-Rancy M, O'Brien SH. Intrauterine Device Outcomes in Young Women with Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Comparing Patients with and without Inherited Bleeding Disorders. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2022; 35:653-658. [PMID: 35820606 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE To evaluate the use of intrauterine devices (IUDs) in two young women's hematology clinics and compare adverse events in adolescents with and without inherited bleeding disorders (BDs) DESIGN: Retrospective multicenter cohort study from February 2014 through February 2020 SETTING: Young women's hematology clinics at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, and Children's Medical Center in Dallas, Texas PARTICIPANTS: Female patients evaluated for heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) who underwent IUD placement INTERVENTIONS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Rates of IUD expulsion, malposition, and ongoing HMB requiring additional medical treatment RESULTS: We identified 43 patients with BDs and 35 patients without BDs who underwent placement of an IUD for HMB. The mean age was 14.9 years (range 11.0-21.4 years) at the time of presentation and 15.8 years (range 11.0-21.4 years) at IUD placement. Those with BDs were younger at the time of IUD insertion. Most patients (90%) had previously failed other methods to control HMB. The annual rate of IUD adverse events was 0.25 per year of use, and all adverse events occurred in the first 20 months after placement. There were no significant differences in adverse IUD events in patients with and without BDs, although those without BDs requested IUD removal more frequently. CONCLUSIONS In this cohort of adolescent females, the presence of a BD was not associated with a higher IUD expulsion rate. IUD placement should be considered a first-line option for adolescents with BDs who experience HMB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole E Kendel
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio.
| | - Ayesha Zia
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Lucy E Rosenbaum
- Division of Internal Medicine/Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Joseph R Stanek
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Biostatistics Resource at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Fareeda W Haamid
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Myra Christian-Rancy
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Sarah H O'Brien
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
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Swaminathan N, Sharathkumar A, Dowlut-McElroy T. Reproductive Tract Bleeding in Adolescent and Young Adult Females with Inherited Bleeding Disorders: An Underappreciated Problem. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2022; 35:614-623. [PMID: 35830928 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2022.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive tract bleeding is an underappreciated health care problem among adolescent and young adult (AYA) females with inherited bleeding disorders (IBDs) comprising von Willebrand disease, platelet disorders, hemophilia carriership, and rare factor deficiencies. IBDs are prevalent in women of all ages and have been detected in about 50% of women with menorrhagia or heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) and about 20% of women with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). The clinical spectrum of gynecologic and obstetric bleeding in AYA with IBDs ranges from HMB, ovulation bleeding, and surgical bleeding to miscarriages and life-threatening PPH. Reproductive tract bleeding adversely affects the quality of life of this patient population, in addition to causing substantial morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis of IBDs offers the opportunity for timely intervention with hormones, hemostatic agents, and prophylaxis with factor concentrates, thereby improving outcomes. This review summarizes the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approach, management, and prophylaxis for reproductive tract bleeding in AYA with IBDs. This review provides a multidisciplinary approach to the problem, which is critical to improve the outcomes of this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neeraja Swaminathan
- Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
| | - Anjali Sharathkumar
- Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, 1322 BT, 200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States.
| | - Tazim Dowlut-McElroy
- Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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Curry N, Bowles L, Clark TJ, Lowe G, Mainwaring J, Mangles S, Myers B, Kadir RA. Gynaecological management of women with inherited bleeding disorders. Haemophilia 2022; 28:917-937. [PMID: 35976756 DOI: 10.1111/hae.14643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Women with inherited bleeding disorders (IBDs) may present to healthcare professionals in a variety of ways and commonly will be encountered by either haematology or gynaecology services. Heavy menstrual bleeding is very often the first manifestation of an IBD. There is a wide variation in severity of bleeding for women with IBD and diagnosis and subsequent management of their condition requires multidisciplinary specialised care which is tailored to the individual and includes excellent cross-specialty communication between gynaecology and haematology teams. This guideline is intended for both haematologists and gynaecologists who are involved in the diagnosis and management of women with bleeding disorders. It sets out recommendations about how to investigate heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), the commonest presentation for women with IBD to hospital services, to guide physicians about how to diagnose an IBD and covers the management of women with known IBD and HMB. The second section sets out recommendations for patients known to have IBD and covers management of patients with IBD in the setting of gynaecological surgery and management for all other non-surgical gynaecological situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Curry
- Oxford Haemophilia and Thrombosis Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and NIHR BRC Blood Theme, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Louise Bowles
- The Royal London Hospital Haemophilia Comprehensive Care Centre, The Royal London Hospital, Whitechapel, London, UK
| | - T Justin Clark
- Birmingham Women's NHS Foundation Trust, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gillian Lowe
- West Midlands Comprehensive Care Haemophilia Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham, Mindelsohn Way, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jason Mainwaring
- Bournemouth and Poole Haemophilia Centre, Royal Bournemouth Hospital, Castle Lane East, Bournemouth, Dorset, UK
| | - Sarah Mangles
- Haemophilia, Haemostasis and Thrombosis Centre, Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basingstoke, UK
| | - Bethan Myers
- Leicester Haemostasis and Thrombosis Centre, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Rezan Abdul Kadir
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Katharine Dormandy Haemophilia and Thrombosis Unit, The Royal Free NHS Foundation Hospital and Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
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Parker M, Hannah M, Zia A. “If I wasn't a girl”: Experiences of adolescent girls with heavy menstrual bleeding and inherited bleeding disorders. Res Pract Thromb Haemost 2022; 6:e12727. [PMID: 35664533 PMCID: PMC9152438 DOI: 10.1002/rth2.12727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is a presenting symptom of an inherited bleeding disorder (BD) and results in hospitalizations, limitations of daily activities, and a reduction in quality of life. Adult women with BD report a sense of stigma, difficulties understanding their bleeding, and challenges with diagnostic labels. The experiences of adolescents with HMB and BD are unknown despite advances in medical management through the rapidly growing network of young women's hematology programs. Objectives The objective of our qualitative study was to describe the experiences of adolescents with HMB with a BD and the impact on their day‐to‐day lives. Patients/Methods Our qualitative study utilized semistructured interviews with adolescents with HMB after a BD diagnosis. We included adolescents with a BD within a multidisciplinary Young Women's Bleeding Disorders Clinic who had achieved menarche within the preceding 3 years and conducted interviews until theme saturation. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using qualitative thematic descriptive analysis. Results We identified the following themes in nine participants: anxiety and embarrassment, especially related to school; isolation and “otherness”; increased cautiousness and planning because of HMB and BD; and empowerment and identity formation because of the diagnosis of a BD. Conclusions Our study uncovers previously unappreciated experiences of adolescents with HMB and a BD. HMB is an isolating and stressful experience in adolescents, but a BD diagnosis results in identity formation and empowerment. Psychological support and facilitating connections to others with similar life experiences soon after diagnosis represents key areas for targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie Parker
- The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
| | - Maria Hannah
- Department of Pediatrics Los Angeles County and University of Southern California Los Angeles California USA
| | - Ayesha Zia
- The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
- Departments of Pediatrics The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
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Weyand AC, Sidonio RF, Sholzberg M. Health issues in women and girls affected by haemophilia with a focus on nomenclature, heavy menstrual bleeding, and musculoskeletal issues. Haemophilia 2022; 28 Suppl 4:18-25. [PMID: 35521724 PMCID: PMC9321707 DOI: 10.1111/hae.14535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Women and girls affected by haemophilia, including haemophilia carriers (WGH) are at risk of bleeding symptoms that may go unrecognized, including heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) and musculoskeletal bleeding. Terminology continues to evolve. Aim To describe the current recommendations for nomenclature surrounding WGH, and the current understanding of HMB, iron deficiency, and musculoskeletal complaints in these patients. Methods Literature was reviewed and summarized. Results With regards to nomenclature, women with factor levels less than 50% should be classified as having haemophilia, while carriers with normal levels should be characterized accordingly to symptomatology. HMB and resultant iron deficiency are common among WGH, have a multitude of downstream effects, and maybe overlooked due to stigma around menstruation. Musculoskeletal bleeding and resultant joint changes are increasingly recognized in this population but do not necessarily correlate with factor levels. Conclusion Although progress has been made in the care of WGH, much work remains to further improve their care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela C Weyand
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Robert F Sidonio
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Michelle Sholzberg
- Departments of Medicine, and Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, St. Michael's Hospital, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Jilani SM, Jones HE, Grossman M, Jansson LM, Terplan M, Faherty LJ, Khodyakov D, Patrick SW, Davis JM. Standardizing the Clinical Definition of Opioid Withdrawal in the Neonate. J Pediatr 2022; 243:33-39.e1. [PMID: 34942181 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2021.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To standardize the clinical definition of opioid withdrawal in neonates to address challenges in clinical care, quality improvement, research, and public policy for this patient population. STUDY DESIGN Between October and December 2020, we conducted 2 modified-Delphi panels using ExpertLens, a virtual platform for performing iterative expert engagement panels. Twenty clinical experts specializing in care for the substance-exposed mother-neonate dyad explored the necessity of key evidence-based clinical elements in defining opioid withdrawal in the neonate leading to a diagnosis of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS)/neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS). Expert consensus was assessed using descriptive statistics, the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method, and thematic analysis of participants' comments. RESULTS Expert panels concluded the following were required for diagnosis: in utero exposure (known by history, not necessarily by toxicology testing) to opioids with or without the presence of other psychotropic substances, and the presence of at least two of the most common clinical signs characteristic of withdrawal (excessive crying, fragmented sleep, tremors, increased muscle tone, gastrointestinal dysfunction). CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that both a known history of in utero opioid exposure and a distinct set of withdrawal signs are necessary to standardize a definition of neonatal withdrawal. Implementation of a standardized definition requires both patient engagement and a mother-neonate dyadic approach mindful of program and policy implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahla M Jilani
- Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health, US Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, DC
| | - Hendrée E Jones
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Matthew Grossman
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Lauren M Jansson
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Addiction and Pregnancy, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Laura J Faherty
- Pardee RAND Graduate School, Santa Monica, CA; Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | | | - Stephen W Patrick
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics and Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt Center for Child Health Policy, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Jonathan M Davis
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Tufts Children's Hospital and the Tufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Tufts University, Boston, MA
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Bauman D, Sommer A, Hamer T, Noy D, Elami M, Yogev SS, Magiel E, Revel-Vilk S. Reduced Activity and Quality of Life in Women Soldiers with Heavy Menstrual Bleeding and Dysmenorrhea. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2022; 35:53-58. [PMID: 34390860 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2021.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to examine the effect of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) and dysmenorrhea on daily activity and quality of life (QoL) in young women engaged in demanding activities. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. PARTICIPANTS A total of 422 Israeli women soldiers in combat and non-combat roles. INTERVENTIONS Participants were asked to provide consent and to complete study questionnaires. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES A pictorial bleeding assessment chart (PBAC), visual analog scale (VAS), verbal multidimensional scoring system for assessment of dysmenorrhea, and approved Hebrew-translated age-appropriate Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). RESULTS HMB (PBAC >100) and severe HMB (PBAC >185) were demonstrated in 181 (50%) and 96 (26%) participants, respectively. A high PBAC score was recorded in 20% who answered "no" or "unknown" in the questionnaire on having HMB. Mild, moderate, and severe dysmenorrhea were demonstrated in 80 (21.5%), 115 (31%), and 142 (38%) participants, respectively. The prevalence of HMB and dysmenorrhea was similar in soldiers in combat and non-combat roles. Diagnosis of HMB was related to the lower fitness-for-service score, history of bleeding, and dysmenorrhea. Daily activity and QoL were both affected by the severity of HMB and dysmenorrhea. CONCLUSION Underdiagnosis of HMB and dysmenorrhea results from a combination of unawareness from the women's side and inattention from the system. In an era of female empowerment, each woman should be at the optimal physiological and psychological level to start her career; thus, addressing the menstrual burden and providing effective treatment is needed in the military scenario and other settings with demanding activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dvora Bauman
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel; Depratment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Adir Sommer
- The Medical Corps, Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
| | - Tal Hamer
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Dor Noy
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Matan Elami
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel; Depratment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | - Erez Magiel
- The Medical Corps, Israel Defense Forces (IDF)
| | - Shoshana Revel-Vilk
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel; Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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