Menstrual Irregularities: Is It Period or Ovulation Bleeding?

Menstrual Concerns

Hello Doctor, I have a question to ask you.
My menstrual period in February was from February 22 to February 28.
Normally, I would expect my period to arrive around the same time in March, but it was delayed and I only got my period from April 3 to April 9 (which means I didn't have a period in March).
Just now, on the evening of April 25, I noticed a small amount of bleeding.
I would like to know if the period I had on April 3 is considered March's period or if it is counted as April's.
If it is considered March's period, am I currently experiencing a normal menstrual cycle, or is this just ovulation bleeding? Thank you, Doctor.

Liu Xiaojie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/26

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Abnormal bleeding and irregular menstrual cycles can have various underlying causes.
It is recommended to consult a gynecologist for evaluation in an outpatient setting.

Reply Date: 2020/04/26

More Info

Understanding menstrual irregularities can be quite complex, and it’s essential to differentiate between menstrual bleeding and ovulation bleeding to better understand your cycle. Based on the information you provided, let’s break down your situation.

First, your menstrual cycle typically runs from February 22 to February 28, which is a regular cycle of about 28 days. However, you mentioned that your period did not arrive in March and instead started on April 3, lasting until April 9. This means that the bleeding you experienced in early April is indeed your menstrual period, albeit a delayed one. In this case, you can consider the April 3 to April 9 bleeding as your March period since it aligns with the typical cycle length you have experienced previously.

Now, regarding the spotting you noticed on April 25, it’s important to consider a few factors. Ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before your next expected period. If we assume your cycle is around 28 days, ovulation would likely occur around day 14 of your cycle, which would be around April 17. Some women experience ovulation bleeding, which is light spotting that can occur when the ovary releases an egg. This bleeding is usually much lighter than a menstrual period and may last for a few hours to a couple of days.

Given that your last menstrual period started on April 3, the spotting on April 25 could potentially be ovulation bleeding, especially if it is light and not accompanied by significant cramping or other menstrual symptoms. However, it’s also possible that this could be breakthrough bleeding, which can occur due to hormonal fluctuations, especially if your cycle has been irregular.

It’s crucial to monitor your cycle and any additional symptoms you may experience. If the spotting continues or if you experience any unusual symptoms such as severe pain, heavy bleeding, or if you have concerns about pregnancy, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend keeping a menstrual diary to track your cycles, symptoms, and any other relevant factors that could help in diagnosing any underlying issues.

In summary, the bleeding from April 3 to April 9 is considered your March period, and the spotting on April 25 could be ovulation bleeding. However, if you have any doubts or if your cycles continue to be irregular, seeking medical advice is always a good step to ensure your reproductive health is in check.

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