Do you count spotting as CD1?

[Lookingforalittlehelp]

I usually spot lightly for 1-2 days before heavier flow starts. Generally only a few spots when I wipe but a noticeable sign period is imminent. Should I count these as CD1? Trying to work out luteal phase but not sure when to start counting from.

Thanks!

No, consider your first day as your first day of proper flow. I always thought this anyway but do experience spotting for 3/4 days beforehand and have recently had initial fertility blood tests, the first of which needs to be on cycle day 1 to 5. So I clarified with the GP and she said definitely count when proper flow starts.

I get a day or two of spotting but i always count CD1 as the first day of proper flow :)

I was told that first day is full flow red blood, if it starts after midday then start from the following day.

@IndianaMoleWoman that's interesting about it being after midday. Was it your GP that told you that? My last few periods have definitely started properly in an evening but I've still been counting day 1 as that same day.