What Causes Menstrual Flow to Gradually Decrease?

While chatting with friends, many mention that their menstrual flow has been gradually decreasing—causing some concern. So, what causes progressively lighter periods?

What Causes Progressively Lighter Menstrual Flow?

Progressively lighter menstrual flow may result from long-term weight loss or deficiency of both qi and blood in women. It may also be associated with insufficient estrogen secretion, premature decline in ovarian function, thinning of the endometrium following induced abortion, or intrauterine adhesions (Asherman’s syndrome). Prolonged oligomenorrhea (scanty menstruation) can impair normal ovulation and fertility; therefore, timely evaluation to identify the underlying cause—and targeted treatment—is essential.

Initial diagnostic steps include blood testing for six key sex hormones to assess hormonal status, as well as transvaginal ultrasound to evaluate endometrial thickness. When reduced flow is due to endometrial thinning, appropriate estrogen supplementation may help restore endometrial health. If intrauterine adhesions are responsible, hysteroscopic adhesiolysis is recommended, followed by estrogen therapy to promote endometrial regeneration. For oligomenorrhea caused by qi and blood deficiency, herbal remedies that tonify qi and nourish blood are essential; once qi and blood levels normalize, menstrual volume typically improves.

In daily life, consider incorporating stress-reducing foods such as bananas, cabbage, potatoes, dark chocolate, and tomatoes into your diet—these may benefit menstrual regulation. Avoid excessive consumption of cold or raw foods, which may exacerbate dysmenorrhea. We hope this information is helpful!