Ovarian hemorrhage complicating warfarin sodium anticoagulant therapy

Three cases of women in the reproductive age group who received warfarin sodium therapy for pulmonary embolism are presented. The therapy was complicated by rupture of ovarian cysts with intraperitoneal hemorrhage necessitating exploratory laparatomy. The possibility of intraperitoneal hemorrhage must be considered in patients who present with abdominal pain and a history of anticoagulant therapy. Lack of awareness of the complication may result in delay in making a correct diagnosis and instituting appropriate therapy.