Irregular Periods After IUD Removal: What to Expect & When to Track Ovulation

Question
I had my IUD surgically removed 3 months ago. Since then I have had 3 cycles. They have been every 28 days but for the first 7 days it is very light then heavy for about another 5 - 6 days afterwards. We are trying to get pregnant but I have no idea when I am ovulating! If it is 14 days after the 1st day of the light bleeding, sometimes I still have it...? I look forward to your reply.  

Answer
Hello,

We designate the first day of the cycle as the first day of "flow."  If you are having spotting before the flow, then it is "premenstrual spotting".  You would then count from the first day of flow.  I recommend using the following schedule to time your intercourse:

1.  cycle day #1 - first day of flow.  Begin counting from here.
2.  cycle day # 10 - stop recreational intercourse.
3.  cycle day # 13-17 - have intercourse each day, once per day, one ejaculation only per episode.
4.  cycle day #18  - resume normal sexual activities.

Good Luck,

Edward J. Ramirez, M.D., FACOG
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com

Monterey, California, U.S.A.