When this amount is more than natural, especially when sufficient to produce weakness and prostration, then it becomes "profuse."
Occurs in the Full-Blooded.—Profuse menstruation may occur in those who are very full-blooded, or in those who are extremely weak and pale. When occurring in the former, the person usually complains of a dull, heavy, throbbing headache, pain in the back, and other symptoms of fever. Such persons recover from an excessive flow of blood quite promptly, and do not suffer severely from it.
Occurs in the Pale.—On the other hand, when this condition occurs in those who are very weak, pale, and thin, there is usually great prostration, which may even become most alarming.
Treatment for the Former.—When profuse menstruation occurs in those who are full-blooded, the diet should be quite simple and plain. Indeed, it would be better if the person should take but two meals a day and should eat but little or no meat. Immediately upon the appearance of menstruation she should go to bed and remain there as quiet as possible, for in this way the pain and fever will be less and the amount of the flow greatly diminished.
Treatment When Pale and Debilitated.—It is a much more serious matter when this excessive loss occurs in those who are pale and debilitated. Often the most energetic measures are necessary even to preserve life itself. The following rule should be observed when possible:—Just as soon as menstruation appears, the person should go to bed and remain there quietly until the flow is nearly over.
Of course it is an easy matter to give these directions, and exceedingly hard, often quite impossible, for them to be carried out. Many women have work that must be done, or children who must be cared for during these days just as well as any other time, and it is almost out of the question for them to remain quiet.
Yet the question seems to be whether they will remain in bed two or three days at this time, and then have far better health for the rest of the month, or whether they will drag along through all the month. We would certainly urge that this suggestion be carried out as often as possible, and that for one or two days the person keep as quietly in bed as possible.
When Very Excessive.—If the flow is very free, then the foot of the bed may be raised three or four inches by placing blocks of wood under each lower corner. This will tend to check the flow.
Wonderful Cures Possible.—Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound has made some most startling and almost miraculous cures in just these conditions. An immense number of letters are on file from women who have despaired of relief, given up all hope, and who were confirmed invalids until after taking this famous remedy. Its continued use heals the inflammation in the cavity of the uterus, causes a better circulation through that organ, makes the blood richer, strengthens the digestion, and thus greatly improves the general health.
Relief is Prompt.—The very next month after beginning its use the flow is diminished, the next month it is still less, and so on, until soon there is only a regular, natural menstruation.