Light periods are menstrual periods that have an unusually light flow or a very short duration of blood loss. Although the menstrual cycle varies from person to person, most women have a normal period approximately every 28 days. Each period typically lasts from four to seven days. The amount of blood lost during a menstrual period ranges from 20 to 80 milliliters (mL). Blood loss of less than 20 mL may be considered a light period. Light periods may accompany other symptoms, which vary depending on the underlying disease, disorder or condition. Light periods may accompany other common symptoms including:

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Frequent infections, especially yeast or fungal infections
• Missed menstrual periods
• Pain during sexual intercourse

A shift or imbalance in hormone levels is the main cause of light periods. Light periods most commonly affect women who are approaching menopause because at that time in their lives women produce less estrogen, one of the hormones that regulates menstrual periods. Light periods can also occur in girls who have just begun to menstruate. An eating disorder, excessive exercise, or a thyroid condition can also cause a woman to have light periods.

Periods that are lighter than usual are not normally a cause for concern. People often find that their menstrual flow varies from month to month, and some months are simply lighter than others. In some cases, a light period can be due to stress or weight loss.

Periods, by nature, can vary — from person to person and even from month to month. So if you’re wondering why your period is lighter than usual this month, you certainly won’t be the first person to have questioned it. In the same way that the length of time you bleed for or day of the month you get your period can change, it’s also common for the amount of period blood you lose to differ.

Sometimes, a light flow can just be part of the regular fluctuations of your period, and often a period will start light before becoming heavier. But occasionally, it can also be a signal that there’s something else going on. Here, three experts break down why, exactly, your monthly bleeding may be light and also explain how to know when it’s time to see a medical professional.

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Light periods are menstrual periods that have an unusually light flow or a very short duration of blood loss. Although the menstrual cycle varies from person to person, most women have a normal period approximately every 28 days. Each period typically lasts from four to seven days. The amount of blood lost during a menstrual period ranges from 20 to 80 milliliters (mL). Blood loss of less than 20 mL may be considered a light period. Light periods may accompany other symptoms, which vary depending on the underlying disease, disorder or condition. Light periods may accompany other common symptoms including:

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Frequent infections, especially yeast or fungal infections
• Missed menstrual periods
• Pain during sexual intercourse