Question

I'm usually very regular with my period but I skipped last month and this month I think I'm experiencing spotting, but I'm not sure, considering I seem to bleed kind of regularly. However, I am not experiencing cramps or back pain or any type of indication that I'm actually on my period. In fact, I feel rather good. I'm very confused as to what is going on, and I've never spotted before my period.

Any idea what could be going on?

Amber

Answer

Dear Amber,

Stress could likely be the cause of what you say was a missed period and the cycle may not be over yet. Stress delays ovulation and when it does occur may be accompanied by some spotting because of the higher level of estrogen that occures in the final build up to ovulation. Think back over the beginning days of your last menstruation and recall any stressful events that might have occured. When the stress passes usually ovulation will occus.

A long cycle occurs occasionally and is not unusual in a normally fertile woman.

You would benefit from charting your fertile cycle and learning about your naturally occuring phases of fertility. See this web site for teachers in your area.

Judy Wilmurt

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