Help needed - when to have a day 21 test when you've got a short cycle?

[Caitni]

Hi ladies

My GP has asked me to book in for day 3 and day 21 tests. But because of my short cycles (average 23 days), he's asked me to book a day 16 test instead of day 21.

I had always thought that the day 21 tests were supposed to be 7 days after ovulation? He seems to think it should be seven days before your next period.

I really like my doctor, but he's admitted he doesn't have much of a clue about ttc (he had to ask the female doctor in his practice about what tests were needed). So I thought I'd ask the collective wisdom of Mumsnet! Since I know when I ovulate (usually day 11), should I book in for seven days after that ie day 18 instead of his suggested day 16?

Hope someone can help!
Thanks
Caitni

Bumping this in case anyone can help

Hi
Our ivf clinic does the tests 5 days after a LH surge (detected by using ovulation kits). It doesnt matter what day it is.

Hope this helps.
Good luck!

Usually no matter how long the cycle in total, it is the first part (the follicular phase) that varies in length. The luteal phase (second part of the cycle, after ovulation) is approx 14 days , can vary a bit but usually not by too muc in most women.

So your ovulation test needs to be approx mid luteal phase which for most women is either 7 days after ovulation or 7 days before your expected period (same thing really!)

If you are using OPKs that can help track ovualtion and then you should do your test about a wek after the positive result. Otherwise work back from your period expected date.

Thanks for your responses.

Sticki that's interesting about your clinic!

Mags I've been tracking my cycles for ages and my follicular phase can vary from anywhere from 9 to 13 days but my luteal phase is a pretty constant 12 days long. I've never tried OPKs but use both a Clearblue Fertility monitor and chart my temps so can pinpoint ov exactly.

I was worrying about whether the progesterone rates would vary depending on the days, and suppose also wanted to be able to compare my results with the "standard" IYKWIM. But since it doesn't seem to be a problem I shall just get an appointment for whenever my GP can fit me in!

Thanks again ladies.

Ok so your cycle is fairly typical then - variable follicular with constant (for you) luteal. So if your luteal phase is 12 days long, mid luteal would be half way through that. So ideally do it 6 days after ovulation.

The progesterone does vary depending on the day (which is why you need to get it in the middle) but not enough that a day or two either way will make much difference. There isn't such a thing as a 'standard' result anyway, as long as the level is above 30 it doesn't really matter. Might vary from month to month anyway!