When to count as CD1 (spotting issues)

[Spencerskates]

Hi all, I’m usually a 29/30 day girl, and I usually have a day of spotting prior to that, but this month has been a bit different. I’m now on CD 31, and have had some light spotting for the past three days. Today has been very slightly heavier, but still only a slight showing on a liner and when I wipe after going to the loo (sorry if that’s TMI!).

When should I count as CD1? When I need to start using a tampon, or today, or the first day of spotting?
I’m thinking this could be part of the reason I’m struggling to conceive if my ‘day’ calculations are out!

I've always been told it's the first day of flow, so always discounted the spotting days (2 or 3 in my case).

First full day of flow - enough to need a tampon /pad

Thanks ladies, I have been doing this, but then got a bit confused on the difference between spotting, and a light bleed!

Hey there! I have the same issues... spotting for two days, but when I go to the loo is heavier, like real AF....then it goes light again. Can I count this as AF?

Sorry I can’t offer advice, but it’s exactly the same for me! Not quite as heavy as AF when I go to the loo, but definitely shows on the paper. A really light spotting ons liner, has been the same for the last five days! I’ve only had this once before when I had spotting pre period, but that was days 24-28 and then AF arrived - this started on day 29! So confused and frustrated. I’ve booked a trip away for me and my husband for what should have been CD12-14 but now that’s totally out.

I'd count the first day I need to use a tampon or pad, spotting doesn't count as far as I was aware xx