Spotting.

melissaepiphany

Just a quick question about spotting... how long do you normally have spotting for before your actual period starts (if any)? I always used to spot a couple days before, but for the last 6 months or so I have been spotting for almost an entire week before my actual period even begins. It irritates me so much, because it feels like I basically have my period for 2 weeks (even though the spotting obviously isn't the same as a period). I don't mean to sound whiny over something so simple, just curious what your experiences are. Plus, it seems my period has started coming every 21 days instead of (the usual?) 28 or so, which also began in the last several months or so. I am 26, not on birth control currently - so I know that's not messing up my cycles.

WhoCanItBeNow

Now it is usually a day or two, but I've had it be 5 days before.

The overall length of your cycle isn't really the concern, it's how long after you ovulate that your period starts. If you are ovulating on day 10 and getting your period on day 22, then all is well. If you are ovulating on day 14 and your period is starting on day 22, then you may have an issue.

Do you do any kind of tracking at all with your periods (not just dates, but cervical mucus and/or temping)? That might help you get an idea if you have an issue or if all is well.

And spotting may or may not be an indicator of an issue. Most of the time it is simply a nuisance.

CH13

Mine is one day before. Also, your cycle length can vary month by month. I agree with PP, maybe start tracking if you don't already. I went off BC in March and started using an app to track when I get it and when it stops.

futuremrsba

I spot at all different times of the month but blame it on my birth control pill. My doctor says not to worry, but I understand that it's super annoying. Have you spoken to your doctor about it? It's always better to be safe than sorry. Just bring it up at your next appointment, or if you're really concerned, call and speak to a nurse. 

Erikan73

I would make an appointment with a doctor for an exam. Don't be surprised if they ask to put you on birth control to see if that will help you become more regular, assuming they don't find anything during your exam.

bekt14

I don't spot at all before my period. Just go from super dry to BAM waterfall every time. 

I agree that you should start tracking your cycles. Anything from stress, a new diet, a new sleep cycle, new hobbies, new lifestyle, etc. can completely change your cycle. It would be helpful to know whether it's a true period (after ovulation) or if you are not ovulating and it's just breakthrough bleeding.