What to Know About Light Periods

While its normal for menstrual flow to vary, you may be perplexed as to why your period is suddenly lighter than usual. According to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, a light period is when there is less than 5 milliliters of blood loss, said Jill Purdie, M.D., a board-certified OBGYN and medical director at Northside Women’s Specialists, part of Pediatrix® Medical Group. “This is approximately one tablespoon or one saturated regular tampon or pad,” she explained. “People may also refer to their period as ‘light’ if it lasts for only a short amount of time, or roughly one to two days,” added Dr. Purdie. There are several common causes of light periods, one being over-exercising. “If the body does not maintain enough calories, ovulation may not occur, and if there is no ovulation, the period may be very light or not happen at all,” said Dr. Purdie.

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