Early period or spotting?

[MrsDaydream]

Hi, I'm new to TTC so would love some help figuring out what is going on this month.
I usually have 28 days cycle - rarely varies - and if it does has only ever been by 1 day earlier/later. We have been TTC for few months with no success so bought an ovulation kit last month and did the deed.
Was very surprised and disappointed to see (what I thought) was a very early period on CD21. It lasted a few days (unlike usual period which is 5 days) and there was less blood than usual. But it was enough to make me think it was my period.
Can this be spotting? (and what is spotting?) Can you get a period this early? And if this is an early period, when do I ovulate next month?
Any advice would be much appreciated, thanks.

Camps down to listen to answers

Have to admit that several of my periods now adays have 'false' starts with spotting, I've always thought that it was a side effect of my body getting older, or a little bit too much, erm, enthusiasm under the duvet, but so if it isn't I'd love to know so I can panic along with you MrsD.

MrsDaydream Hello. I have usually have a cycle length of 28 days too and the past three months (waiting to see if it happens this month but as yet, it hasn't) I have spotted about 4 days prior to AF showing up. I've NEVER had this before, ever, so I initially thought it could be implantation as it literally lasted a day or two and was very very light. The following month she reared her head on CD24 with an initial day of spotting and then the same last month with AF coming on CD26.

I did a little research and apparently it can be an indication of low B6 levels or low progesterone. I opted for the easy one to try first and have started taking a B complex supplement along with my Boots pre conception supplements to see if this works.

I have a Clearblue fertility monitor and my ovulation was the same each month regardless of when AF started.

I have no idea if my ramble has helped in anyway! Hopefully it was just a blip (or an implantation bleed!)

Thanks OneLonelySock and Barrenbrook, that was very helpful. It was reassuring to hear that this has happened to others as well.

In a normal month, AF should have arrived yesterday but no sign so I think it might just have been a odd early period. Work has been very stressful this month so that might have caused it.

I've popped down to the chemist for some B vitamins just in case so thanks for the tip!

Onwards to next month ... and wishing good luck to you both.