Implantation Bleeding: Causes and Symptoms
Spotting is usually a sign of an upcoming period, but not always. In some cases, it can be an early sign of pregnancy known as implantation bleeding. This is a condition that occurs in up to 25% of pregnancy women.
Keep reading to understand the signs of this normal and harmless condition. We’ll go over signs, symptoms, causes, and how you can tell the difference from other causes of vaginal bleeding.
What is Implantation Bleeding?
Implantation bleeding is a light and brief discharge of blood that occurs when a fertilized egg attaches itself to the lining of the uterus. This usually happens around 6-12 days after conception. This is one of the early signs of pregnancy and is often mistaken for a very light period.
Causes of Implantation Bleeding
Implantation bleeding occurs when the fertilized egg burrows into the uterine lining, causing small blood vessels to break. This can result in light spotting or discharge of blood. The exact cause of implantation bleeding is not fully understood. However, it is believed to be a result of hormonal changes in the body.
When does implantation bleeding happen?
In terms of the timeline, this is what it typically looks like over the course of a 28-day cycle:
- Day 1 – Menstrual cycle starts
- Day 14 – Ovulation starts, typically 2 weeks before next period
- Day 15 – Fertilization happens within hours of ovulation
- Day 24 – Implantation occurs, bleeding starts
Symptoms of Implantation Bleeding
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Sometimes this light bleeding or spotting is often mistaken for a light menstrual period, as the symptoms can be similar. However, there are a few key differences to look out for. Implantation bleeding is typically lighter and shorter in duration than a regular period. It may also be accompanied by mild cramping or abdominal discomfort.
Other symptoms that may indicate implantation bleeding include:
- Light pink or brown spotting
- Lighter flow than a regular period
- Spotting that occurs around 6-12 days after conception
- Mild cramping or abdominal discomfort
- Fatigue or mild nausea
How to Tell if You’re Experiencing Implantation Bleeding vs Period
It can be difficult to determine if you’re experiencing this implantation bleeding vs. a light period. Here are a few ways to tell the difference:
Timing
Implantation bleeding typically occurs around 6-12 days after conception, which is earlier than a regular period.
Color and Flow
Bleeding is usually light pink or brown in color, and the flow is much lighter than a regular period. If you notice a light, pinkish discharge that doesn’t require a pad or tampon, it could be a symptom.
Duration
This condition is usually shorter in duration than a regular period. It may only last for a few hours or a day, whereas a period typically lasts for 3-7 days.
Other Symptoms
It may be accompanied by mild cramping or abdominal discomfort, as well as fatigue or mild nausea. This in conjunction with the other symptoms is typically a sign.
Early Signs of Pregnancy
This type of bleeding is usually accompanied by early pregnancy symptoms such as:
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Food cravings
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Tender breasts or nipples
- Mood swings
- Frequent urination
The key differences between a period and this condition are duration, amount, and cramping. If you notice bleeding with differences in any of these three factors combined with signs of pregnancy, it may be implantation bleeding.
How Long Does Implantation Bleeding Last?
While periods can last a up to a week or more, this type of bleeding usually ceases after 1 – 2 days.
Is Heavy Implantation Bleeding Normal?
While it is typically light and short in duration, some women may experience heavier bleeding. This is known as heavy implantation bleeding.
Causes of Heavy Implantation Bleeding
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There are a few reasons why a woman may experience heavy implantation bleeding. One possible cause is a subchorionic hemorrhage. This is a collection of blood between the uterine wall and the placenta. This can cause heavy bleeding and may require medical attention.
Another possible cause of a heavy flow is an ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus. This can cause heavy bleeding and may be accompanied by severe abdominal pain. If you suspect you may have an ectopic pregnancy, seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms of Heavy Implantation Bleeding
This may be accompanied by symptoms such as:
- Heavy bleeding that requires a pad or tampon
- Severe abdominal pain
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Passing large blood clots
- Nausea or vomiting
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention to rule out any potential complications.
Implantation Bleeding: What to Expect
While we can’t post implantation pictures on this website, they are readily available online. We can however describe what some implantation bleeding pics look like. This condition can vary in appearance and may look different for each woman.
In some cases, the bleeding can have a pinkish or peach color. This indicates fairly light bleeding.
Other times the bleeding can be brown, which is also normal. This happens when blood mixes with cervical mucus and can take time to exit the body. When this occurs, the blood oxidizes and turns brown.
Some moms will also experience bright red spotting, which means the blood is fresh. This is also a normal occurrence.
In terms of flow, this can also vary. Some women experiencing only a few drops of blood while others may have a heavier flow. This type of color and flow is seen in many heavy implantation bleeding pictures located in medical journals.
Implantation Bleeding Treatment
This condition will stop by itself. If you are concerned about the amount or color of the discharge, do not hesitate to call your doctor. The doctor will typically ask about the color and amount or ask for a sample.
When to See a Doctor
If you suspect you may be experiencing implantation bleeding, it’s important to consult with your doctor. This will help to confirm the pregnancy and rule out any potential complications. You should also seek medical attention if you experience heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or any other concerning symptoms.
How Long After Implantation Bleeding Should I Take a Pregnancy Test?
When you take a home pregnancy test, it tests for a specific hormone in your urine called hCG. These levels start increasing after the embyro has attached itself to the uterine wall. Therefore, taking the test too early could indicate a false-negative. It is important to way at least 3-6 days after bleeding stops to take the test.
Blood tests are much more sensitive to hCG. These can be administered by a doctor and can give a result much earlier than a home pregnancy test kit.
Other Causes of Bleeding During Pregnancy
Implantation bleeding isn’t the only cause of spotting during pregnancy. In fact, there are many things that can cause this, both serious and common. Those who experience heavy bleeding should always contact a doctor as a precaution.
Some common causes of blood while pregnant are:
- Infection – Sexually transmitted infections or STIs can cause bleeding and other problems. It’s important to get tested and treated for any STIs or STDs if you discover you are pregnant.
- Fibroids or polyps – Growths can also be the cause of bleeding. Your doctors may check for this through testing.
- Cervical problems – A compromised cervix as well as infections and growths can cause bleeding.
- Ectopic pregnancy – An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the embryo implants outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes. Cramps and bleeding are common when it comes to this condition, and it requires immediate medical attention.
- Sex – Changes in the body can cause bleeding during sex. This is a normal occurence.
- Miscarriage – 15% of pregnancies result in miscarriage within the first 3 months of pregnancy. This is typically accompanied by bleeding and cramping, and requires an immediate doctor’s visit.
Implantation bleeding is a normal and common occurrence for women upon conception. It’s typically a sign of pregnancy, but it’s important to contact your doctor to make sure. Otherwise, this condition will go away without intervention. If you take the correct steps, you will have healthy and enjoyable pregnancy.