Demystifying Implantation Bleeding

Many women who are actively trying to conceive research signs and symptoms of early pregnancy. One symptom that they discover is implantation bleeding. We will be shedding some light on this lesser known sign of early pregnancy.

What Is Implantation Bleeding?

Implantation bleeding is a small amount of light bleeding that occurs approximately 10 to 14 days following conception. For some women, this is one of the first signs of early pregnancy.

What Causes Implantation Bleeding?

Fertilization is the union of the sperm and egg. The fertilized egg then begins a descent to the uterus. Once the embryo reaches the blastocyst stage, it hatches out of the zona pellucida and begins the process of implantation.

Sometimes, bleeding occurs at the time of attachment due to rupturing of a small amount of the blood vessels in the lining of the uterus.

How Common Is Implantation Bleeding?

It is estimated that approximately one-third of pregnant women will experience implantation bleeding.

What Are Some of the Other Signs of Implantation?

In addition to light bleeding, women may experience other signs of implantation. These include cramping, sore breasts, bloating and headaches.

How Do I Know If It Is Implantation Bleeding?

Implantation bleeding generally occurs 10 to 14 days after conception. This can make deciphering things tricky since this may be around the time of the expected period. Some women identify implantation bleeding retrospectively. In other words, they have what they believe is a very light “period” followed by a positive pregnancy test.

The main difference between implantation bleeding and menstruation is the amount of bleeding. Implantation bleeding will usually be much lighter and last for only a day or two. Generally, women describe implantation bleeding as only slight spotting. Unlike menstrual periods, implantation bleeding should not present with any clots.

Takeaway Message:

Implantation bleeding can be one of the first signs of early pregnancy. This is a fairly common sign, as approximately one-third of pregnant women will experience implantation bleeding. The timing of implantation bleeding can sometimes make it difficult to distinguish from a menstrual period. However, implantation bleeding is likely to be significantly lighter and last a shorter period of time as compared to your menstrual period.

Have you experienced implantation bleeding? What were some of your early signs of pregnancy? We would love to hear from you. Please share in the comments below.