How to Stop Prolonged Periods – Home Remedies

Sometimes, it can feel like your period is lasting forever. That’s because it is! Let’s explore what prolonged periods are and how to stop prolonged periods immediately.

Prolonged Periods Defined

A prolonged period is defined as prolonged menstrual bleeding that lasts for more than seven days at a time and makes you bleed more than 40 ml of blood. If you soak through a pad every 1-2 hours, you might be experiencing really heavy bleeding.

Symptoms of Prolonged Periods

Before we dive into the solutions, let’s take a look at the signs and symptoms of prolonged periods:

• Periods lasting longer than 7 days.
• Soaking through a sanitary pad or tampon within 1-2 hours for several hours in a row.
• Needing to double up on sanitary protection to manage the heavy flow.
• Having to stay at home due to heavy menstrual flow.
• Symptoms of anaemia, such as feeling tired, exhausted, or short of breath.

Causes of Prolonged Period

Did you know that more women than you might think suffer from a heavier flow than normal?  Prolonged periods are, in fact, quite common. They might be caused by:

• Disruptions in estrogen and progesterone levels.
• Irregular or lack of ovulation.
• Non-cancerous growths in the uterus.
• Small benign growths on the uterine lining.
• The uterine lining growing into the uterine wall.
• Some Intra-Uterine Devices (IUD), especially non-hormonal ones.
• Certain medications, like blood thinners.
• Benign tumours or cysts.
• Uterine or endometrial cancer.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease and other infections.
• Miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

Can You Stop Periods Immediately Through Home Remedies?

Stopping a period immediately is challenging and often not possible. However, a few home remedies and gentle methods might help reduce or slightly delay menstrual flow.

Natural Remedies to Stop Periods

How to stop periods naturally? Here are a few home remedies for long periods that might help:

Take in more vitamin C

Taking in more vitamin C can help your body absorb iron and save you from anemia. It is a condition which can be caused due to really low blood volume in your body, and is fatal. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons and grapefruits. You can also have vitamin C from kiwis, strawberries, tomatoes, etc.

Consider vitamin A

The daily recommended dose of vitamin A is 1 mg. Some studies have shown that a lack of vitamin A in women’s diets can cause heavy bleeding. Foods such as goat cheese, cod liver oil, sweet potato, spinach, carrot contain high amounts of vitamin A.

Add more iron to your diet

Some research has shown that lack of iron in your body might be contributing to heavy periods. Take iron from natural food sources, supplements or simply cook in iron pots and pans. You also lose out on a lot of iron when you are experiencing prolonged menstrual bleeding. Eat foods rich in iron content such as beef, spinach, beans, chicken, etc.

Take ginger

A research conducted has shown that consuming small amounts of ginger every day for a period of three months can help reduce period flow. Put a small amount of crushed ginger in your kadak masala chai every morning.

Drink more water

If you have been bleeding heavily for a few days now, your blood volume might have gone too low. Drink more water to maintain your blood volume. To balance out the extra water you are drinking, add more salt to your diet or drink a Gatorade solution.

Apply icepack

Placing a cold compress on your abdomen can help constrict blood vessels which reduces period flow. It also helps in numbing pain, swelling and inflammation.

OTC medications

How to stop menstrual bleeding immediately? Some over-the-counter pain medications can help in reducing period bleeding. These drugs can also help ease period cramps. You can combine them with other medications for better relief from heavy, prolonged period bleeding.

Include soy foods in your diet

Soy foods are considered one of the best home remedies to stop long periods, and rightfully so. Soy foods contain phytoestrogens or ‘plant estrogens,’ which can regulate hormonal imbalance and bring your periods back on track. Consume soy foods such as soy milk, tofu, tempeh, soy sauce, soybeans, soy chunks, etc.

Try flaxseeds

Flaxseeds help regularise the ovulation process and flushes out excess estrogen from the body that contributes to heavy periods, making them one of the best Indian home remedies to stop prolonged periods immediately. Flaxseeds can also boost low levels of estrogen, so if you’re looking to bring your periods back to normal, include flaxseeds in your diet.

Asoka

Asoka (Saraca indica) has been used traditionally in Ayurvedic medicine as one of the Indian home remedies to stop prolonged periods. It helps balance hormones and reduces excessive menstrual bleeding, potentially shortening the duration of periods.

Herbal Teas

Herbal teas like ginger, raspberry leaf, and chamomile can help reduce menstrual flow. Ginger tea is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may ease menstrual cramps and lighten bleeding. Raspberry leaf tea can tone the uterine muscles, potentially leading to shorter periods.

Heat Therapy

Applying a heating pad or hot water bottle to the lower abdomen can help relax uterine muscles and reduce menstrual flow. The heat promotes blood circulation, relieving cramps and leading to a quicker period end.

Top 10 Easy Home Remedies To Stop Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding

• Manage Stress

Reducing stress through activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help balance hormones, which may decrease the duration and intensity of menstrual bleeding.

• Exercise Regularly

Regular physical activity helps regulate your menstrual cycle and can reduce the severity of menstrual bleeding. It also boosts endorphin levels, which can alleviate cramps.

• Eat A Healthy Diet

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support hormonal balance and reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. Iron-rich foods can also prevent anemia due to blood loss.

• Consume Supplements

Taking supplements like iron, vitamin C, and vitamin K can help reduce heavy bleeding and support overall menstrual health. Always consult a doctor before starting any new supplements.

• Consider Birth Control

Hormonal birth control methods, such as pills, patches, or IUDs, can help regulate periods and reduce excessive menstrual bleeding. Consult your healthcare provider to find the best option for you.

• Try Pelvic Floor Exercises

Strengthening pelvic floor muscles through exercises like Kegels can improve uterine support and potentially reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.

• Acupuncture May Help

Acupuncture may help regulate hormonal imbalances and reduce heavy menstrual bleeding by stimulating specific points in the body. It’s a natural therapy that many find beneficial.

• Medications to Consider

Non-prescription medications like ibuprofen can reduce menstrual flow and alleviate cramps. For more persistent cases, prescription medications may be necessary; consult your doctor.

• Apply Heat Pads

A heating pad on your lower abdomen can help relax uterine muscles, reduce cramping, and possibly lighten menstrual flow, providing relief during heavy periods.

Are There Any Side Effects of These Home Remedies?

While these remedies are generally safe, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take medications.

Pro Tips and Tricks to Deal with Prolonged Periods

Here are a few things you can do to manage your heavy periods better:

• Keep an extra pair of clothing for a quick fix in case of accidents.
• Keep extra menstrual products too for those heavy days.
• Avoid any light-colored pants, shorts, skirts, etc.
• Use old blankets and bedsheets just in case.
• Exercise; it may sound hard but exercising really helps alleviate prolonged period symptoms.
• Use heating pads or hot water bottles to manage period cramps.
• If there are blood stains, use cold water along with stain removers.
• Air dry your sheets or pants; using a dryer can set the stain in permanently.
• Journal how much you bleed, how long you bleed, the number of menstrual products you use, physical and mental symptoms that accompany prolonged periods, home remedies you’re trying, medications you’re taking, etc.

Related Read – Heavy Period Leak Hacks: 7 Tricks For Managing Heavy Periods

When to Seek Medical Help?

If you don’t notice any changes with these remedies and your prolonged period of bleeding continues, see a doctor immediately. You also need to see a doctor if you:

• Notice large clots in your period blood
• Bleed in between periods
• Feel very tired or short of breath

If you’re looking up “how to stop periods immediately home remedies for 2 days?” then we hate to break it to you: No natural remedies for prolonged periods will immediately stop your periods. It’s going to take a while for the bleeding to lessen. What might help till then is a sanitary pad that is able to take all your flow. A RIO pad for instance, was engineered to take the heaviest of flows. It also:

• Soaks all the blood clots like a pro
• Turns all the liquid blood into a gel form
• Have side leak guards to prevent leaks
• Has an anti-bacterial top sheet to prevent the growth of bacterial infectionsChoose RIO, choose a better period!

FAQs:

How Do You Stop Prolonged Periods Immediately?

Stopping prolonged periods immediately isn’t always possible, as it depends on the underlying cause. However, you can try over-the-counter medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen to reduce bleeding and pain temporarily. But remember, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine the cause and appropriate treatment for your prolonged periods.

How Do You Stop a Prolonged Period Naturally?

Natural long periods home remedies consist of dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments. You can try increasing your intake of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron-rich foods, ginger, and flaxseeds. Staying hydrated and practicing relaxation techniques like yoga can also help regulate your menstrual cycle naturally. However, if your prolonged periods persist, it’s crucial to seek medical advice.

Can Ginger Stop Periods?

Ginger can’t stop periods entirely, but it can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with heavy and prolonged periods. It has anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce pain and bleeding. Ginger can be consumed in various forms, such as ginger tea or added to meals, to provide relief during your period

Does Lemon Stop Periods?

No, lemon is not one of the natural remedies to stop prolonged menstrual bleeding. Lemon is often associated with its ability to promote a healthy immune system and provide vitamin C, but it does not have the power to stop menstrual bleeding or affect the menstrual cycle in any significant way.

Why is my period lasting too long?

There are various reasons why your period might last longer than usual. These can include hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, polyps, stress, certain medications, or underlying health conditions. If you’re concerned about the duration of your period, consult with a healthcare provider to identify the cause and determine the appropriate treatment.

How to stop a month long periods naturally?

A prolonged period of this length may indicate a serious medical issue that requires medical attention. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional to investigate the underlying cause and determine the appropriate treatment.

How can prolonged periods affect my health?

Prolonged periods can have several health implications, including:

Iron deficiency anaemia: Caused by excessive bleeding, iron deficiency anaemia result in fatigue, weakness, and other anaemia-related symptoms.

Fatigue and mood swings: Prolonged periods can be physically and emotionally draining, leading to increased fatigue and mood swings.

Decreased quality of life: Prolonged periods can interfere with daily activities and negatively impact your overall quality of life.

Underlying health issues: Prolonged periods can sometimes be a sign of underlying medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or uterine fibroids.

What to drink to stop periods?

There is no specific drink to stop periods immediately once they have started. However, staying hydrated with water or herbal teas can help maintain overall health and ease some menstrual symptoms. Certain herbal teas like ginger or chamomile may help with pain and discomfort, but they won’t stop your period altogether.

How common are prolonged periods?

Prolonged periods are quite common and affect many women at different life stages. If you’re experiencing this, there are effective treatments available to help.

What is the best position to sleep in during your period?

Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees or in the fetal position can be most comfortable during your period, helping to relieve cramps and any discomfort.

Does vinegar help stop your period?

There is no scientific evidence that vinegar can stop your period. It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for safe and effective ways to manage your menstrual cycle.

How heavy is too heavy for a period?

If you need to change your pad or tampon every 1-2 hours for several hours in a row, or your period lasts longer than seven days, it’s considered too heavy.