How to make a period end faster
Can your teen shorten their period?

Updated February 18, 2026 • Medically reviewed by Dr. Katie Knight
Medically reviewed by Dr. Katie KnightIn this article
Quick answer: how to make your period end faster
There isn’t a safe or proven way to make a period end faster once it has started.
Periods follow a hormonal process that can’t be sped up at home.
While things like rest, hydration, and gentle movement may help symptoms feel more manageable, they don’t shorten the length of a period.
If you’re a teen reading this, it’s completely normal to wish your period would finish sooner – especially if you’re uncomfortable or have plans coming up.
Unfortunately, bodies don’t work quite that way, but luna can help you manage your periods in the best way!

Sometimes a period arrives at the worst possible moment.
Some teens may have big plans coming up, feel uncomfortable, or simply feel fed up and want it to be over sooner. It’s a very common question – and one we hear often.
Understanding what’s possible (and what isn’t) can help take some of the pressure away and make periods feel less frustrating and more predictable.
Can you make a period end faster at home?
There’s no safe or proven way to force a period to stop once it has started.
However, certain habits may support the body and potentially help a period feel less intense.
These include:
- Staying hydrated: drinking water can help to reduce bloating which sometimes makes cramps feel worse, but it won’t shorten a period
- Light movement: gentle exercise like walking or stretching may help reduce cramping
- Heat therapy: using a hot water bottle or having a warm bath can help relax the body
- Rest: quality sleep supports hormonal regulation, which can affect the menstrual cycle overall
That said, none of these methods guarantee a faster end, they’re more about comfort and supporting the body during menstruation.
What should you NOT try to make a period end faster?
There’s no evidence that things like:
- Eating lemons or limes
- Drinking water to excess (they need about 6-8 glasses a day)
- Drinking vinegar
- Doing intense workouts
- Taking supplements without medical guidance
…will make a period end faster.
These claims often come from social media or word of mouth, but they aren’t backed by science and can be unhelpful – or even harmful – if taken too far.
If someone feels desperate to shorten or stop their period, it can sometimes be a sign they’re feeling distressed or uncomfortable.
In those situations, it can help to talk to a pharmacist or doctor about safe pain relief options and feeling more comfortable.
Does drinking water help a period end faster?
This question has been trending on TikTok, and it’s one luna hears from teens almost every day.
Many videos claim that drinking lots of water can “flush out” a period and make it end sooner.
So what’s the truth?
Short answer: no, drinking water will not make a period end faster.
Periods are controlled by hormones, not hydration levels.
So even though water is great for overall health, it doesn’t change how long the uterus takes to shed its lining.
A small study from 2021 hinted at a possible link between hydration and shorter periods, but it was tiny and not strong enough to rely on.
More research is needed before anyone can say there is a real effect.
So for now, the science is clear: drinking water won’t shorten a period.
So… does water help at all?
Yes, staying hydrated can still support teens during their period in helpful ways:
- It may reduce bloating, which can make cramps feel worse
- It can support energy levels and mood
- It keeps the body functioning smoothly during hormonal changes
But none of this actually speeds up a period.
It’s more about feeling better while a period runs its natural course.
Can medication help a period end faster?
There are some hormonal medications that can be prescribed to delay or control periods, such as for holidays, sports, or medical reasons.
This should only be considered under medical supervision.
If a teen is interested in adjusting their cycle for a specific reason, you can learn more in our guide to delaying periods for teens.
Shortening periods: the key points to know
You can’t reliably speed up a period, but:
- Staying hydrated
- Managing stress
- Using heat for comfort
- Tracking periods with the luna app
…can all help teens understand their body better and feel more in control of what to expect each month.
If a period is unusually heavy, long, or distressing, it’s a good idea to speak with a doctor.
And if a period is getting in the way of plans, tools like luna’s cycle tracking, symptom logging, and expert guidance can make their period feel far more manageable.
With time and support, most teens find their cycle becomes easier to handle.

How we created this article:
luna's team of experts comprises GPs, Dermatologists, Safeguarding Leads and Junior Doctors as well as Medical Students with specialised interests in paediatric care, mental health and gynaecology. All articles are created by experts, and reviewed by a member of luna's senior review team.
Sources:
NHS "Periods" | Accessed 18.02.26
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/periods/NHS "Period pain" | Accessed 18.02.26
https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/period-pain/We'd love to keep in touch!
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