What counts as the start of a period?

[Millie202023]

Waiting to ring clinic to start cycle. I have regular periods and have come on today. But it’s only light brownish discharge which is normal for me at the beginning of my periods. Does it count as cycle day 1? Or should I wait till a full red bleed to start then ring the clinic?

Our clinic specify that day 1 is the first day of full flow before 12.00. Maybe check with them what their policy is? Good luck with you cycle. x

I get spotting before periods, clinics have always said that is not day 1 until actual period flow starts.
My cycle isn't like clockwork but if for example you usually spot for 3 days you could ring them already and say when you think day 1 will be so they can get you booked in for scan.