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It is normal to experience severe tiredness, especially in the first three months following the haemorrhage. You may find that you become exhausted even after a little activity, such as going shopping, watching the television or talking with friends.This is because your brain has to concentrate hard to process everything that is going on around you and therefore becomes tired very quickly. It is your body’s way of telling you to slow down. Taking regular short relaxation breaks in a quiet environment can help. Try and do this at least three times a day for approximately 20–30 minutes. Listening to a favourite piece of music can help, but try to avoid anything too stimulating like watching the television or reading.

You may also find that you have difficulty sleeping at night and can only sleep for short periods. Some people find that aromatherapy can aid sleep and relaxation; a popular fragrance is lavender, however, citrus oils can also help you to relax and are less likely to make you sleepy. You can place a few drops on your pillow or use the fragrances in an oil burner. If you wake in the night and cannot get back to sleep, you could try getting up and making a hot drink rather than lying there worrying about not sleeping.

It can help to have a daily routine. Try to get up and go to bed at the same time each day. Plan some relaxation breaks during the day. If you have returned to work, you could talk to your employer about the possibility of having extra break times.