What Causes Light And Short Period?

Posted on Wed, 16 Nov 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 16 Nov 2016 Answered on

Wed, 14 Dec 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : My periods are short and light now...barely even 3 days, if that. if I am dehydrated, can that cause my period to be light? I had a coffee and half a bottle of water all day. I'm scared it could be something serious.

Answered by Dr. Deepti Verma (43 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Normal change

Detailed Answer:
Hi dear,
I have gone through your question and understand your concerns.
Lighter periods which are regular can be due to the physiological changes in the body.
It is a normal phenomenon in many females to have decreased blood flow in periods as the age advances.
However, other causes leading to lighter periods like tuberculosis of uterine lining and hormonal disturbances should be ruled out.
Dehydration has no effect on the flow of periods, but you should take atleast 2-3 litres of fluid a day to have a healthy body.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Regards
Dr Deepti Verma
OBGYN

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Deepti Verma (19 hours later)

ok. I just can't figure out why they are lighter and shorter in the past 5 months or so. I would say I have anxiety, more than the average person. I am on birth control as well.

it seems as if ever since I was on medicine for a uti, my periods have not been the same. I took plan b once during the past few months, although I'm not sure I needed to.

Answered by Dr. Deepti Verma (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Birth control pills decrease the period flow

Detailed Answer:
Hi dear,
Periods are usually lighter if you are on birth control pills.
Plan B tablet can also cause decreased flow in periods for few cycles.
Anxiety is unlikely to effect the period flow.
Regards
Dr Deepti Verma

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng