AYA hematology and gynecology program
The National Bleeding Disorders Foundation estimates that more than 2.5 million young women, girls, and people who menstruate in the U.S. are living with an undiagnosed bleeding disorder that negatively impacts their lives. Research shows that young women with bleeding and clotting disorders often face delays in diagnosis. Since many primary care doctors and general gynecologists aren’t trained in pediatric or adolescent hematology, they may not always recognize the unique needs of teens and young adults with these conditions.
The Children’s Minnesota AYA hematology and gynecology program offers coordinated, specialized care for young people with bleeding and clotting disorders. Patients can schedule visits that include both a pediatric hematologist and a pediatric gynecologist—ensuring comprehensive, age-appropriate care in one place.
We evaluate and manage common conditions, including:
- Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
- Menstrual management
- Personal or family history of bleeding or clotting
- Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia
More complex conditions treated include:
- Menstrual disturbances including polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis
- Pelvic pain
- Ovarian cysts
- Abnormal development of the reproductive structures or systems
With proper diagnoses and treatment, people with bleeding and clotting disorders can have an improved quality of life and more safely receive menstrual management, undergo surgery and other procedures, and even childbirth.
Why should I choose Children’s Minnesota adolescent and young adult (AYA) hematology and gynecology program?
There are a number of reasons why you should choose Children’s Minnesota for treatment of your teens’ bleeding or clotting disorder.
- The AYA hematology and gynecology program is the only program in the region to address bleeding and clotting disorders in this population.
- Children’s Minnesota has the only pediatric gynecologists in Minnesota.
- This program offers access to a pediatric hematologist, pediatric gynecologist, and dedicated support staff in one coordinated appointment.
- As part of Children’s Minnesota’s Center for Bleeding and Clotting Disorders, the program belongs to a nationwide network of federally funded hemophilia and thrombosis centers.
- Our providers are proud members of the Foundation for Women and Girls with Blood Disorders (FWGBD) Learning Action Network. This means we actively support research and studies that improve care for patients with bleeding and clotting conditions.
- Access to the latest treatment options, including Lysteda®, the first and only non-hormonal medicine approved to treat heavy menstrual bleeding.
- We offer nitrous sedation during procedures such as IUD insertion to reduce pain and anxiety.
- Children’s Minnesota has more experience – we care for more than 58 percent of children diagnosed with cancer or blood disorders in Minnesota, and 74 percent of those diagnosed in the Twin Cities metro.
- Camp Not-a-Clot, a summer camp in Minnesota for children and adolescents with bleeding disorders.
Additionally, recent studies show adolescents with complex health issues fare better in pediatric hospitals than in adult hospitals, even when adult hospitals follow pediatric protocols.
This is precisely why Children’s Minnesota offers a specialized approach to adolescent care. We align treatment with your teen’s developmental needs and diagnosis, fostering teamwork, self-care, and peer connection.
Resources that you may find helpful
- Join Dr. Miller and Dr. Garland for a clinical podcast about symptoms, diagnosing, and managing heavy menstrual bleeding. Talking Pediatrics Podcast: Stopping the Flow- How to Recognize and Treat Symptomatic Heavy Menstrual Bleeding.
- Through a series of short videos, learn about what an IUD is, what the process for placement of an IUD is like, and what to expect after an IUD is placed. Intrauterine Device (IUD) Videos.
- The Foundation for Women and Girls with Bleeding Disorders has produced a conversational-style podcast that answers the most pressing questions about periods and heavy menstrual bleeding. 7-2-1 Podcast.
Contact us
The AYA hematology and gynecology program is located at:
Children’s Minnesota Specialty Center
Suite 560
2530 Chicago Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55404
