TTC v irregular periods

[TTCclueless]

So, I have one DD who is 3 and was a bit of an accident so very new at this TTC game.

I have very irregular cycles (ranging from 23 to 37 days, though more often between 27 and 31). I believe I have had since my periods started though I was on the pill from 17 until I conceived my daughter so hard to tell.

I am BFing my DD a couple of times a day but periods returned before she was 6 months old.

I guess I just want to know any tips and ideas about trying to work out when I ovulate and how to maximise chances? I don't want a much greater age gap than 4.5 years if possible for a range of reasons, so would like to be pregnant within the next 6 months if possible.

I'm worried that maybe it was a fluke last time and it's going to be very difficult this time (after only trying for one month!). Perhaps because my mother had fertility issues.

I'm 30 by the way and definitely don't have the issue my mum had.

Any hand holding/idea much appreciated.

Have name-changed!

Hi TTC, I also have irregular periods although not to the extent you have (mine vary between 27-31 days) but after trying for 5 months unsuccessfully to get pregnant I've bought some cheap ovulation sticks from amazon.

Used them for the first time this month and found that I ovulated later in my cycle than I thought so we had calmed down on the shagging by the time I ovulate! So now know I need to keep going longer :) although I'm going to keep using the sticks now so that I know when to expect my period!

Hi TTC, I recommend 'Taking Charge of Your Fertility' by Toni Weschler. Lots of really useful info about figuring out exactly when you're ovulating, luteal phases, etc, etc. (Should add that I've not started TTC just yet, but after having read this book I feel like I'll know exactly what to look out for!)

A "normal" cycle is a cycle length of between 21 and 35 days OR with less than 4 days of variation from month to month.

Long standing irregular cycles often point to hormonal imbalances; in this regard a condition called polycystic ovaries is often to blame. Another possible cause is problems with the thyroid gland. Both can be looked for via blood tests.

I would keep an eye on your cycles and if they are still irregular in say 3 months then visit the GP to have blood tests done.

OPKs and the like are of no real benefit if the cycle is consistently irregular.