APH Women’s Conference shines spotlight on coagulopathies in women

During the first weekend of April, Associação Portuguesa de Hemofilia e de outras Coagulopatias Congénitas (APH), our Portuguese National Member Organisation, hosted its biannual Women’s Conference in Portugal, bringing together 25 participants for an engaging weekend dedicated to congenital coagulopathies in women. Held on the first weekend of April, the event underscored the urgent need to raise awareness around these conditions, which are still widely perceived as affecting only men.

The programme focused on breaking the silence surrounding female experiences with congenital bleeding disorders, reinforcing the importance of early diagnosis and adequate treatment. A key goal of the event was to empower younger members of the community to take an active role in APH’s mission — continuing education, raising awareness, and advocating to healthcare professionals for better recognition and management of these conditions.

Beyond informative sessions, the Conference provided a valuable space for participants to share personal experiences and collaborate on strategies to ensure comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for women at every stage of life.

APH continues to amplify its efforts in communicating the realities of coagulopathies in women. This focus is not only essential — it is transformative for the many women who are patients, carriers, mothers, and partners. Their role in families and within the bleeding disorders community is vital, and APH remains committed to supporting them through advocacy, education, and connection.