Luteal Phase Spotting Not “Normal”.

This past Saturday, April 26th, marked three years from my official diagnosis of endometriosis – it was my endo-versary 🙂

When I look back at the time before I was diagnosed, I remember knowing that something was wrong with my body especially when I started to have “abnormal bleeding” in the luteal phase of my cycle (this is the time from ovulation to menstruation).

Every time I discovered spotting during these out-of-place times I’d freak out and make an appointment with my gynecologist who’d be quick to tell me that it was normal. (Even though I knew it wasn’t!)

Along my journey of healing endo, this spotting has come and go. It tends to show up a few days before my period is about to start. Its been several month however, since I had any abnormal spotting…..

Then my endo-versary arrived with a little dark brown blood — staining my white panties — Boo.

What Causes Luteal Phase Spotting?

I admit that the sight of the brown blood made me think sourly of my body’s state and after taking a moment to wallow (in light of my endo-versary), I moved onwards……

And re-visited the reasons behind spotting in the luteal phase. A symptom, that I do not believe to be fully “normal” as I was taught by my doctors throughout my twenties.

After conversing with many women with endometriosis over the years, I learned that it is common with this disease, so I suppose that means it’s “normal” in whatever way endo can be 🙂

Here’s the low-down on what causes luteal phase spotting…..

 1.) Luteal Phase Defect

A luteal phase defect is present when the period of time between ovulation and menstruation is less than ten days long. This does not give the uterus enough time to establish a nourishing lining for a growing fetus.

2.) Low Progesterone Levels

Low progesterone levels go hand in hand with a luteal phase defect. If progesterone levels drop too soon (within a few days past ovulation) then the body thinks its time to flush out the uterus. Spotting happens as the corpus luteum dissolves.

3.) Sensitive Cervix

The cervix can get sensitive and bleed a bit, especially after various medical treatments including pap smears or more invasive procedures like Leeps or colposcopies.

4.) Ovarian Cysts

Sometimes ovarian cysts can cause pain and spotting especially brown blood (which indicates old blood).

5.) Early Pregnancy

Brownish spotting that happens between 6-11 days past ovulation (DPO) could be implantation bleeding. This happens when the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus.

On the Positive Side?

The brownish spotting happened on days 6-7 past ovulation, so for the moment I’m going to remain positive that my brown spotting was a good sign of implantation.

This thought is better placed over the other that creeped into my mind during my endo-versary…. that things are getting worse …. that even after all this healing I’m stepping back in time! Lol.

See how it’s best to think positive?

I was told over and over by my gynecologist that luteal phase spotting is “normal”. While it may be normal with endometriosis, for an otherwise, unknowing woman, I believe this should be taken as a sign that something is askew, not brushed off as “normal”.

I am grateful that I was able to learn that spotting is not normal from the support of other women with endometriosis. Which reminds me….. I started up a private Facebook group built upon the premises of positive, natural healing. I’d love to “meet you” there!

You can join the new private Facebook group – “Finding Peace With Endo” here. 

Much love,

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