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Genetic contribution to postpartum haemorrhage

BMJ 2014; 349 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.g5285 (Published 27 August 2014) Cite this as: BMJ 2014;349:g5285

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Re: Genetic contribution to postpartum haemorrhage

It is laudable that worthwhile efforts have been made into identifying women at risk of post partum haemorhage. It has been reported that there is a very strong familial relationship amongst women with post partum haemorhage. As such, it is surprising that the terms "haemophillia" and "Von Wllebrand disease" have not been mentioned.

Any woman known to have Von Willebrand disease is at very high risk of post partum haemorrhage. And the corollary exists: That is, a woman with a post partum haemorrhage is likely to have Von Willebrand disease.

It was recommended that taking a family history from all pregnant women could save lives, by identifying those at risk of post partum haemorhage. We would suggest that taking a bleeding history would also be of value in identifying women at risk of post partum haemorrhage. Any woman with life long heavy menstrual bleeding, who bruises easily and bleeds freely is liable to have a haempohillia and is likely to be at risk of post partum haemorrhage.

Competing interests: No competing interests

07 September 2014
Malcolm John Dickson
Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
Eve Rawlisson, Fiona Harris
Wayside, Eccups Lane, Morley Green, Cheshire, SK9 5NZ
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