Ovarian hematoma and hemoperitoneum complicating anticoagulant therapy

The diagnosis and management of ovarian hemorrhage complicating anticoagulant therapy is discussed and a case presented. The patient, who had undergone mitral valve replacement and was receiving chronic anticoagulation treatment, was admitted with signs of intraperitoneal bleeding from a ruptured ovarian hematoma. This complication must be considered in the menstruating female who is receiving anticoagulant therapy. Long-term anovulatory therapy could possibly avoid this potential ovarian hemorrhage.