Q:
Is it possible to conceive and still have a very short menstrual cycle two days later? I am getting conflicting answers.
A:
Women's menstrual cycles vary from month to month and from woman to woman. A typical cycle, from the beginning of one period to the next, is 26 to 32 days. Ovulation occurs approximately two weeks before the beginning of a period. With a 26-day cycle, then, your fertility peaks on the 12th day (26-14=12). Similarly, you would ovulate on day 18 in a 32-day cycle.
Once pregnancy occurs, a light flow or spotting may occur when the period is expected. Although it is commonly mistaken for a cycle, it's not. It is probably related to the implantation of the pregnancy in the uterus.
Although I have heard of women saying they still have monthly periods while pregnant, I have not seen it in any of my patients nor read about it in any medical articles.
Craig L. Bissinger M.D.
Our parenting advice is given as suggestions only. We recommend you also consult your healthcare provider, and urge you to contact them immediately if your question is urgent or about a medical condition.
