Rest and avoid strenuous activity
Lie down and elevate your legs if you feel weak or dizzy
Drink plenty of water and clear fluids
Eat iron-rich foods such as spinach, beans, lentils, red meat, and fortified cereals
Include vitamin C-rich foods to help iron absorption
Use a heating pad on the lower abdomen to reduce cramping
Track bleeding with pads or menstrual cups to monitor flow
Use the heaviest absorbency sanitary products available
Change pads or tampons frequently to stay clean and monitor bleeding
Avoid aspirin, which can increase bleeding
Try ginger tea or ginger in food if it agrees with you
Try parsley tea only in small amounts and avoid if pregnant
Take over-the-counter ibuprofen only if safe for you and as directed on the label
Get enough sleep and reduce stress
Seek urgent medical care if you soak through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours
Seek urgent medical care if you feel faint, short of breath, or have chest pain
Seek urgent medical care if bleeding lasts longer than 7 days or includes large clots
Seek medical advice if heavy bleeding happens regularly
Seek medical advice if you may be pregnant
Seek medical advice if you have a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners