TTC & cycle language · In plain English

Cycle day (CD)

A way of counting days from the start of a period. Day 1 is usually the first day of proper menstrual bleeding, rather than light spotting.

Also searched as: CD1, day 1, cycle day 2–5

Why you might see this term

Cycle-day information can help a clinician interpret hormones and plan time-sensitive tests. Clinics may have specific instructions for bleeding that begins late in the day.

What to keep in mind

Use the timing instructions for your particular test; not all hormone tests should be taken on the same cycle day.

Sources & further reading

Prepared by ProFertility · Updated 23 October 2026.

Educational information based on the linked sources. This explanation is not an individual diagnosis or a treatment recommendation. A term appearing here does not mean the test is necessary or included in a particular kit.

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