What do light periods mean for PCOS fertility?
Q: So Monique, sometimes I realise my periods are really light, lasting just a few days with some spotting. Is that a problem?
A: This is a question I commonly get asked in fertility coaching sessions. And what I typically tell women diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is that what is “normal” is different for everyone. The same goes for menstrual flow. While you hope to become pregnant and go nine months without getting a period, your uterine lining is important, and your flow can indicate how healthy your lining is.
Let’s discuss what is “normal”, “heavy”, and what might be considered a “light” cycle.
Periods typically last three to five days and result in three to five tablespoons of blood loss.
Heavy periods: Last more than seven days and result in blood loss of five tablespoons or more.
Light periods: Last less than three days with just spotting or one to two tablespoons total blood loss.
Therefore, if you have ever wondered whether your light period is a sign of trouble and the reason you are unable to fall pregnant, here are a few things to get checked out.
Step 1: Speak to your doctor about having your hormones tested, particularly estradiol, luteinizing hormone, and follicle stimulating hormone. This will help you determine whether you are developing the appropriate hormonal response in the early stages of your cycle.
Step 2: Track your cycles more closely. Simply pay close attention while changing your napkins and learn the “light”, “medium”, and “heavy” visual cues.
Step 3: Request an ultrasound. Have an internal ultrasound around the time of ovulation to assess the health of the uterus lining.
If your results are normal, there’s no reason to be concerned about your lighter flow. If this is a concern for you, and you’re tired of lab tests and ultrasounds, fertility coaching may be exactly what you need to increase your chances of conception.
Monique Allen is a certified holistic nutritionist and PCOS fertility coach. She has a web-based practice where she helps women with PCOS balance their hormones, feel their best, and improve their fertility. For additional resources or personal assistance, contact her via WhatsApp at 876-355-2641, social media @themoniqueallen, or e-mail hello@themoniqueallen.com.
