Spotting before AF - TMI

[CuppaTee]

Hi all,
I'm hoping for some advice on this one!
I always thought I had a 'normal' 28 day cycle, with the 'normal' AF cramps and mood swings to go with it and have now been charting for a few months to learn more about it as we're wanting to TTC soon.

I've always had a few days of spotting - brown discharge before AF starts properly (with red blood, lasting for 4-5 days). I've been trying to read around the topic to find out if this is normal and if it should be counted as the first cycle day.

But now I've done that it seems that this has potential to be a problem as it is shortening my LP to 9-10 days each month coupled with the drop in temperature before AF arrives - maybe low progesterone or a LP defect?

Do you have this kind of spotting and it's resulted in a problem?
Or is it nothing to worry about if you've always had it?

All comments gratefully received!

[AttilaTheMeerkat]

Spotting between periods should always be checked out by the GP to ascertain the underlying cause. Its often not serious but it should be looked into all the same.

Brown blood is "old" blood. First proper day of AF is when red flow appears, that is then the first cycle day.

LPD is a controversial subject; some gynaes think it is a problem whilst others do not. You won't I think get much if any answer from the GP on that as this sort of thing may be outside their actual remit.

[eggsovereasy]

Hi cuppa

I am exactly the same!!!

I'm sorry I dont have time to post long history right now but we could be twins

I have tried B6 vits which seem to add an extra day to my cycle.

[Iggisfulloftayto]

I have this. Thought was just me
The "early" days are both red and brown though, so v.hard to know what is period and what is not.
Hadn't thought of seeing GP, but think I will now. (as getting nowhere fast on the conception front).
However Cuppatee I should say that I was like this when I conceived DS, so it can still happen.

[eggsovereasy]

Igg you have given me hope . I'm currently CD28 due today but been brown spotting for 2 days now as per usual. AS I'm never sure the real start of AF my peak days vary by one or two days and I think that is why!

Do you mind me asking how long you have been TTC?

My GP said my LPD (9-11 days) is fine as my progesterone levels are higher than average. My GP is useless though so never sure what to believe!

[Iggisfulloftayto]

Me? Conceived after 7 months (DS), then a few years later tried again and conceived after 2 months (mc unfortunately) and have been trying the four months since then.
When I was pregnant last time I had the spotting, then no bigger period, then realised I was pregnant.
It is all very confusing though and I wish for a more straightforward cycle! Have made GP appt in few days time, maybe she will cure me (first time, I conceived the month after going to the GP to ask for referral to fertility clinic, so you never know!)
Hope you get the news you want...