Expert: Lawrence Jay Rappaport <B>M.D.</B> - 10/11/2005

Question
In a nutshell...I've been trying to get pregnant for six months.  I started BBT charting.  I started my period on Sept. 12.  it lasted for seven days (this is abnormal for me). I just started again on Oct. 4.  I have had brown light bleeing until today, Oct 11.  Today it was light but a little redder.  I also took an ovulation predictor test for the heck of it and it came out positive.  My temperature has been elevated for 15 days past ovulation.  It has not gone back to preovulation state.  What is going on?

Answer
From your description, it appears that you have a normal 30 day cycle (from the first day of your period until the first day of your next period). The length of each period is insignificant as is the color. You probably ovlated on September 27 (although you did not mention the date you took the ovulation predictor test). Since you avoulte on cycle day #16, you should concentrate intercouse on cycle day #15,16,17, and 18 each month. Continue taking your BBT and see how long the luteal phase is. It is better to have a longer one than a shorter one. Also, you should check your progesterone level. If it is low, you may need some progesterone supplementation.