Menorrhagia: The Importance of Treatment in Women with Disorders of Hemostasis

Abstract

Case A 37 yo female was admitted to the hospital for potential Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura after laboratory findings noted a platelet count of 12k and mild anemia. Her history revealed new onset petechiae, gingival bleeding and recently worsening menorrhagia. Treatment began with IVIG, prednisone and iron and she was ultimately discharged with instructions to follow up. Within 2.5 months of her initial presentation of ITP, the patient had a recurrence of petechiae and a platelet count of 4k. Upon readmission, IVIG and steroids were restarted. At this time, she was also experiencing cramping, fatigue, and heavy menstrual bleeding that led to another drop in hemoglobin. Discussions about outpatient management of menorrhagia were started. After 5 days, she was discharged and began Tranexamic Acid to address excessive menstrual losses at home. In follow up, she expressed significant anxiety about her diagnosis of ITP and felt that her ongoing menorrhagia was causing her ITP to recur.

Conclusions Finding the best treatment option for patients experiencing menorrhagia requires consideration of numerous factors including the patient’s medical history, cause and severity of menorrhagia, future childbearing plans, patient preference and more. Without proper management, menorrhagia has been linked to decreased quality of life in terms of physical, mental, and social health. Anxiety surrounding menorrhagia can be compounded when patients do not have a clear understanding of the etiology of their condition.

Clinical Significance Managing disorders of hemostasis like ITP can be complex especially in cases of early relapse. Menorrhagia in the setting of a bleeding disorder can further complicate management and can lead to worsening physical and psychosocial consequences. While prompt recognition and treatment of menorrhagia in patients with disorders of hemostasis is important for improving physical outcomes, it also plays a critical role in improving quality of life for patients.