Let's Talk Period! Preliminary results of an online bleeding awareness knowledge translation project and bleeding assessment tool promoted on social media.

INTRODUCTION

Undiagnosed bleeding disorders are common and can pose significant health risks, especially for women. Recently, a self-administered bleeding assessment tool (Self-BAT) was validated in von Willebrand disease.

AIM

To increase awareness of undiagnosed bleeding disorders through the use of an informational website (http://letstalkperiod.ca) targeted at women in their reproductive years.

METHODS

The Let's Talk Period website was built in consultation with a medical communications company and focus groups of women, with the aim of clearly presenting key messages around menstrual bleeding. The website was promoted through social media and local and national interviews. Upon completion of the online Self-BAT available at http://letstalkperiod.ca, the result is displayed to the user along with a recommendation to seek medical attention if the score is abnormal.

RESULTS

During the initial 3-month period, there were 5158 page views from 64 countries. A total of 489 individuals, 95% female, completed the online Self-BAT. The mean Self-BAT score was 6, range 0-44. Abnormal Self-BAT scores were reported in 45% of the respondents, of whom 96% were female. The most commonly reported bleeding symptoms were menorrhagia (98%) and postpartum haemorrhage (82%). Bleeding symptoms were similar across different geographical areas.

CONCLUSION

An online screening tool is an effective method of identifying individuals concerned with abnormal bleeding. A significant portion of the general population report experiencing symptoms of abnormal bleeding. In women, the most frequently reported bleeding symptoms were menorrhagia and postpartum haemorrhage.