If you’ve noticed unexpected bleeding and are wondering if it’s normal, you’re not alone. Implantation is the process during conception when a fertilized egg has traveled to the uterus, finds a cozy spot, and nestles in for the next 9 months. Implantation bleeding is a common early sign of pregnancy, but what if it’s heavier than expected?
What is implantation bleeding?
Implantation bleeding is light spotting that can occur when the embryo (fertilized egg) attaches to the uterine wall. The attachment of the embryo to the uterine wall can break down some of the blood vessels in the area, causing some mild bleeding. Implantation bleeding can be one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. Implantation occurs about 6-10 days post ovulation and it is common for some women to mistake implantation spotting for the start of their period.
What does implantation bleeding look like?
- Brown or light pink in color
- Lighter flow, not as heavy like your normal period
- Only lasts a few hours up to a day or two
- Not accompanied by clots or heavy flow
When does implantation bleeding occur?
Implantation most commonly occurs between 6-10 days post ovulation and can sometimes be accompanied by light bleeding and/or cramping. This timing usually falls between ovulation and your expected period. If you track your cycle and notice light bleeding or spotting during this window, it could be a sign of implantation. This type of bleeding is often one of the earliest signs of pregnancy, happening just before or around the time you might take a pregnancy test.
Can implantation bleeding be heavy?
Implantation bleeding is typically not heavy and should not be similar to your normal period. With implantation bleeding, you should not be passing any large clots or passing any tissue. If you are noticing a heavier flow around the time your period is due, it may be the start of a new menstrual cycle and not implantation.
How long does implantation bleeding last?
Implantation bleeding lasts usually for a short duration and can vary, but it typically lasts for a few hours up to two days. The duration and intensity of implantation bleeding is different from person to person, and not all women experience it.
Implantation bleeding vs period, what’s the difference?
You are not alone when wondering what type of bleed you are having. There are a few key differences between implantation bleeding vs period bleeding. The differences include:
Implantation
- Brown or light pink in color mixed with cervical mucus
- Lighter flow, may only notice when you wipe
- Only lasts a few hours up to a day or two
- Not accompanied by clots or heavy flow
- May be accompanied by very dull cramping
Period
- Dark or bright red in color
- Heavier flow
- May last 3-7 days
- May pass clots or tissue
- May be accompanied by heavier, more painful cramping
We know that even if you know the differences between implantation and a period, it can still be hard to decipher which is which. The only sure way to know if it’s implantation or your period is to take a pregnancy test. To make sure you get an accurate test result, be sure to wait until the first day of your missed period before taking a pregnancy test. Your body needs time to build up human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is the pregnancy hormone that shows on a pregnancy test. If you need help knowing when you should take a pregnancy test, download the free Premom app to learn more and help you track your menstrual cycle symptoms.
What should I do if I have heavy bleeding during pregnancy?
If you are pregnant and have any spotting or heavy bleeding during your pregnancy, you always want to consult your healthcare provider right away. If you are unable to get in touch with your healthcare provider, you can seek an urgent care or emergency room near you to be evaluated.
Summary
Some mild bleeding during your two week wait may be indicative of implantation and early pregnancy, however not all women who get pregnant will experience implantation bleeding. If you do experience implantation spotting, you will want to wait 4-5 days before taking a home pregnancy test to allow the pregnancy hormone hCG to build up enough to show on a urine test strip.
Don’t forget to document the symptoms you experience during your two week wait in the Premom app so you can easily identify any trends and know exactly when to take a pregnancy test!
References
Kim SM, Kim JS. A Review of Mechanisms of Implantation. Dev Reprod. 2017 Dec;21(4):351-359. doi: 10.12717/DR.2017.21.4.351. Epub 2017 Dec 31. PMID: 29359200; PMCID: PMC5769129.“What Causes Implantation Bleeding.” Medical News Today, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318659. Accessed 20 January 2023.
