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Implantation bleeding happens when the fertilised egg attaches to the uterine lining, causing light bleeding. If you are unsure about what this bleeding is, it's best to consult your healthcare expert. While it’s not harmful, it’s simply an early sign of pregnancy and usually lasts only a few days as the egg settles into the uterine lining.
Implantation Bleeding: An Overview
Implantation bleeding refers to light bleeding, also known as spotting, which occurs when the fertilised egg or zygote implants itself in the uterine lining. It is one of the earliest symptoms of pregnancy, which can often be slightly pink or brown.If a fertilised egg has implanted itself in the uterus, the spotting appears on the toilet paper or underwear. Implantation bleeding may last for a few days. There are chances that you may notice it for a few days or only once.
When does implantation bleeding happen?
Fertilisation usually happens within a few hours of ovulation. About 6 to 7 days later, implantation takes place, which is when you might notice this bleeding.
Duration of implantation bleeding
The zygote takes approximately 3 to 4 days to travel and implant itself in the uterine cavity. During implantation, some individuals may experience light bleeding, known as implantation bleeding, which typically lasts for one to two days.
How to Differentiate Between Implantation Bleeding and Period?
Implantation bleeding is often confused with menstrual bleeding. However, you can differentiate as you observe the flow, colour, duration and a couple of other symptoms. Here's how to distinguish between implantation bleeding and period:Duration
- Implantation bleeding occurs around 6-12 days after ovulation and a couple of days before your period date and lasts for 1 to 3 days.
- Period, however, occurs 14 days after ovulation if the egg is unfertilised and lasts for around 3 to 7 days.
Flow
- This type of bleeding has a very light flow, which may be light red or pinkish-brown in colour. On the other hand, period bleeding starts light, but as it progresses, the flow becomes heavy and then stops.
- Period blood in the initial stages of starting is light pink or brown and then turns bright or dark red.
Symptoms
- Implantation bleeding has minimal to no clots. You may experience mild cramping with no symptoms like PMS.
- You may experience mild to severe cramping due to periods, which are also followed by PMS symptoms. Period blood can, however, include clots.
Symptoms of Implantation Bleeding
Implantation bleeding is one of the most common signs of pregnancy. It usually occurs around 1-2 weeks after egg fertilisation. During early pregnancy, you may notice symptoms associated with this type of bleeding, such as:- Occurs a few days before menstruation
- Has an unusual discharge colour
- Very light bleeding, almost spotting
- Mild cramping
Since this is an early sign of pregnancy, you may experience a few other symptoms, like those of pregnancy, such as the following:
- Headaches
- Tiredness
- Dizzy feeling
- Nauseous
- Mood swings
- Tender and swollen breasts
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Food cravings
- Slight fever
Symptoms for immediate attention in case of implantation bleeding
- Heavy continuous bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain
- Foul-smelling discharge
- Prolonged bleeding worsening
- Fever
Implantation Bleeding and Its Colour
A few drops of pink, red or brown blood are considered to be safe during implantation. It is usually a light flow and not enough to soak a pad or tampon. The colour of the bleeding varies significantly depending on various factors, such as the following:Light pink
Brown
Rust-coloured
Is Implantation Bleeding Common in Early Pregnancy?
There are chances that you may or may not experience implantation bleeding in early pregnancy. Light bleeding during early pregnancy is not something to be concerned about. It is, in fact, a sign of early pregnancy.Implantation bleeding occurs after fertilisation and is an early sign that conception has happened. However, if the bleeding lasts longer than expected or is heavy, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
This bleeding is often mistaken for a light period, and you might not even notice it. If you are unsure, it can make it harder to work out your baby’s due date. In this case, a foetal ultrasound can help confirm the correct date. This usually clears up on its own and doesn’t need treatment.
Considerations for Implantation Bleeding
If it's your first pregnancy, it's common to confuse this type of bleeding with a period. It's important to know the difference. Here are some key points to help you tell them apart:- Track your cycle: Try to keep a check on your menstrual cycle. It can help you identify what type of spotting it is. At the same time, it also tracks the colour, flow and timing of bleeding.
- Consult a healthcare professional: If you are unsure about the bleeding, you may also consider consulting your healthcare professional. A healthcare expert guides you about the necessary tests and the following stages.
- Take a test: If required, you may take one of the at-home pregnancy tests. However, take the test after you have missed your period.
Misconceptions About Implantation Bleeding
Apart from implantation bleeding being confused with periods, there are other misconceptions, too. However, there are more, some of which include the following:Myth 1: Implantation bleeding is just regular period blood
Myth 2: All women get implantation bleeding
Myth 3: Implantation is a guarantee of pregnancy
Complications for Implantation Bleeding
This type of bleeding is generally harmless during the early stages of pregnancy and usually doesn't lead to complications. However, it’s important to stay aware of any changes or concerns. If you experience any unusual symptoms, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional.However, it is advisable to consult healthcare experts if you get heavy bleeding instead of light bleeding. Some other symptoms that can lead to complications due to implantation bleeding include fever, chills, and cramping. Some of the common complications due to this bleeding include:
- Miscarriage: Miscarriage can be a complication in early pregnancy, where you may experience heavy clots and severe bleeding.
- Ectopic pregnancy: In some rare cases, the fertilised egg attaches itself outside the uterus, somewhere in the fallopian tube, which triggers ectopic pregnancy.
When to Seek Healthcare Professional Advice?
While implantation bleeding isn’t usually a concern, you can seek medical advice if you are worried. However, there are certain symptoms to watch for when considering medical help, including:- Heavy bleeding, usually heavier than a period
- Severe cramping or pain in the abdomen
- Heavy bleeding accompanied by frequent chills or fever
- A history of pregnancy complications or miscarriages
Implantation bleeding is one of the earliest signs of pregnancy, but not everyone experiences it. If you don’t have it, there’s no need to worry. In the early stages, especially if it’s your first pregnancy, it can be hard to tell whether the bleeding is from implantation or your regular period.
This type of bleeding can also vary from person to person. If you want to learn more about the signs, symptoms, or any necessary treatment, it’s best to speak with a healthcare professional.
FAQs on Implantation Bleeding: Here’s All You Need to Know
- Will pregnancy tests be positive during implantation bleeding?
Pregnancy tests usually detect pregnancy through the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which increases after implantation. During implantation bleeding, the hCG level is too low for pregnancy tests to be detected as positive. - Do you get cramps during implantation bleeding?
Yes. You may experience cramps during implantation when the fertilised egg attaches itself to the uterus. These cramps are less severe than menstrual cramps and have light spotting or bleeding.
