new....questions

[daisy123]

Hi!
I'm just looking for some advice...I'm 30, husband 31. We have 1 daughter who is 2 1/2yrs. She was conceived the first month we tried. We have been TTC #2 for 7 months. I have been off B/C (pill) since Jan of 2009. I know it can take a year, but I have also been having some brown spotting before my periods since July.

Prior to this my cylces were 30-32days. Now they are either 32 days (with 4 days of brown spotting prior) or 28 days (with 2 days of brown spotting). I ovulate from day 15-19 depending on the cylce length. I think my LP is usually 11days (from O to brown spotting). My ob did a day 20 progesterone level and thyroid test..both normal. She didn't seem to concerned and said I could do a sonohysterogram if I wanted to look for fibroids or polyps. I know I don't have fibroids because I do ultrasounds.

My questions are:
1.Is the brown spotting considered the first day of my period?(I never got a clear answer on this) If so, is it irregular to have such long periods?

2.Could the spotting be from a polyp...even though it so predictable? Would you recommend to do the sono?

3.Could this be affecting my fertility?

4.Is this reason enough to not wait a year before seeing a Re? I don't want to waste time if something is wrong, but I also don't want to do unnecessary tests either.

Thanks so much!

[Scott Roseff MD]

1. Spotting can be day 1 of a period IF it's there all day long, every single time someone checks. If it's intermittent, then it's not likely considered to be day 1.
2. Yes, it's possible. We can check for polyps on saline sonograms, HSG's, and hysteroscopies. Regular ultrasound may not be able to pick up polyps.
3. Yes, it's possible.
4. Someone usually waits a year IF she doesn't suspect a problem. If you suspect the spotting or short luteal phase is a problem, then an investigation may be warranted sooner rather than later.

Hope this helps,
Dr. Roseff in FL