If your period is light, the flow may appear pink, red, or brownish.
You may or may not experience cramps and period pain.
Some people (up to 25%) may experience spotting or breakthrough bleeding in early pregnancy.
Illustration by Brianna Gilmartin for Verywell Health
Implantation bleedingis often mistaken for a light period.
Implantation is when a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall.
Implantation bleeding:
Cervical bleedingis another potential cause of light bleeding during pregnancy.
During pregnancy, the cervix is more sensitive and may bleed after intercourse.
Implantation Bleeding and Your Due Date
Make a note of a lighter-than-normal period.
Pregnancies are dated by the last menstrual period.
Breastfeeding
People who are nursing have high levels ofprolactinin their bodies.
It’s a hormone produced by the pituitary gland to stimulate breast milk production.
This can lead to prematureosteoporosisor stress fractures.
Having abnormal menstrual cycles can also cause infertility.
This can cause your period to be lighter, irregular, or stop completely.
What Is a Light Flow?
This can also change from one month to the next.
Birth Control
Going on hormonal birth control can also cause a change in your period.
Ask a healthcare provider for advice on the method that is best for you.
Hormonal Changes
During different stages of life, your period may become lighter as your hormones change.
These include:
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can lead to lighter periods.
That’s because Advil slows down the production ofprostaglandin, a hormone that causes contractions in the uterus.
This leads to less uterine shedding and decreased bleeding.
You may opt for an at-home test first.
If your period seems off and you’re not sure why, let a healthcare provider know.
Tracking yourperiod symptomscan help.
See a healthcare provider right away if you have additional concerning symptoms or any bleeding after menopause.
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