On 25 March 2025, the EHC held a Round Table discussion titled Advancing Women’s Health – The Importance of Early Diagnosis for Women with Bleeding Disorders at the European Parliament in Brussels. The event, hosted by MEP Stine Bosse (Renew, Denmark), focused on embedding women’s health into EU policy and addressing the ongoing challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and access to care for women with bleeding disorders.

In her opening remarks, MEP Stine Bosse emphasised the need for stronger EU policies to prioritise women’s health. She highlighted the ongoing disparities in representation, research, and clinical trials, stressing that women’s health is inherently complex and requires more attention. Her speech underscored the importance of awareness, education, and ensuring equal access to treatment for all women and girls affected by bleeding disorders.

Dr Roseline d’Oiron from Hôpital Bicêtre, APHP, Université Paris Saclay, delivered a key presentation on Treating Women with Bleeding Disorders – New Challenges and Old Stereotypes. She outlined the shared experiences of women with haemophilia, von Willebrand Disease (VWD), and extremely rare bleeding disorders, particularly the risks of excessive bleeding after surgeries, trauma, and the unique challenges posed by menstruation and pregnancy.

Dr d’Oiron emphasised that disparities in access to diagnosis, treatment, and care remain a significant issue, largely due to a lack of knowledge not only among patients and their families but also among healthcare professionals (HCPs). She stressed the critical need for early diagnosis, self-advocacy, and the empowerment of girls from a young age, as well as further research and registries to improve care standards.

Personal testimonies from two members of the EHC Women and Bleeding Disorders Committee brought a human perspective to the discussion. Marion Bräuer shared her journey, emphasising the role of treatment, education, and family support in enabling her to lead a fulfilling life. Anna Tollwé spoke about her delayed diagnosis and the challenges she faced, particularly in her teenage years. Their stories reinforced the urgent need for better awareness, comprehensive care, and gynaecological specialists who understand bleeding disorders.

During the Q&A session, discussions centred on how to improve care for women with bleeding disorders. Participants explored the importance of integrating comprehensive care centres and gynaecological specialists into treatment pathways. The issue of ageing in women with bleeding disorders was also raised, with experts noting that while some mild conditions may improve over time due to increased factor levels, comprehensive monitoring remains essential.

The event concluded with a strong call to action:

• Strengthen early diagnosis efforts to prevent complications and improve outcomes.
• Promote patient empowerment and self-advocacy from an early age.
• Ensure women are actively included in clinical trials to improve treatment options.
• Expand research and registries to ensure women receive the care they need.
• Ensure equal access to diagnosis and treatment across all age groups and conditions.

EHC extends its gratitude to the sponsors of the Round Table, CSL Behring and Takeda, for supporting this critical discussion on advancing women’s health.

This event marks another step toward ensuring that women with bleeding disorders receive the recognition, care, and treatment they deserve.