How long does a period last?

Bottom lineA period usually lasts 2 to 7 days (about 5 on average), heaviest in the first couple of days and lighter toward the end; see a doctor if bleeding regularly lasts longer than 7 days, is consistently under 2 days as a new change, is very heavy, or comes with severe pain.

Most periods last 2 to 7 days, with the average around 5 days. Bleeding is usually heaviest in the first 2 days and tapers off after that.

What's typical

• Day 1 to 2: heaviest flow, bright red
• Day 3 onward: lighter, sometimes darker or brown as it ends
• Total: 2 to 7 days is the normal range

Period length can vary cycle to cycle and changes naturally with age, hormonal birth control, and life stage.

When length is worth checking

• Longer than 7 days regularly (prolonged bleeding)
• Shorter than 2 days, especially if it's a new change
• Very irregular length from cycle to cycle
• Bleeding that's very heavy or comes with severe pain

Short or long bleeding can reflect hormones, birth control, thyroid issues, fibroids, or PCOS/PMOS. A new, lasting change from your usual is the thing to note.

Track your period length over a few cycles with the Menstrual Cycle Calculator.

Femora records exactly how long each period lasts so changes stand out over time.