When you’re trying to conceive, it’s totally normal to pay attention to any little thing that happens in your body—after all, it could be a sign that you’re pregnant! One of the early indicators of a possible pregnancy women look for is implantation bleeding. Here’s everything you need to know about it, including what it is, when it happens, and what to look for.
What Is Implantation Bleeding?
Implantation bleeding is exactly what it sounds like. When a fertilized egg attaches, or implants, to the lining of the uterus, some people notice light bleeding or spotting. The attachment and subsequent movement of the embryo in the uterine wall can break down small blood vessels and cause this bit of bleeding. It’s important to note that implantation bleeding doesn’t happen for everyone—or even for every pregnancy. About one in three women experience implantation bleeding upon conceiving.
When Does Implantation Bleeding Happen?
Implantation bleeding typically occurs between days 10–14 after conception. And if you’re familiar with the reproductive cycle, this is right around the same time that a menstrual period occurs. Confusing, right?
How Can I Tell the Difference between Implantation Bleeding and My Period?
Because of the timing, it can be easy to confuse implantation bleeding with early period spotting. But there are a few differences you can look for, including:
Amount: Implantation bleeding is typically only spotting or a very light flow—some women only notice it when they wipe. Implantation bleeding is never enough to fill a pad or tampon like a menstrual period.
Color: Menstrual bleeding is typically a bright to dark red, and will look like what you typically experience during your monthly period. Implantation bleeding is a much lighter hue, typically a very light pink or light rust color.
Clotting: Some women experience passing small clots during a menstrual period; however, implantation bleeding should never be accompanied by clotting.
Timing: Implantation bleeding typically only lasts anywhere from a few hours to a few days. If it lasts more than that and is a full flow, it’s probably your period, not implantation bleeding.
Is Implantation Bleeding a Concern?
Bleeding due to implantation shouldn’t be a cause for concern, and does not present any risk to the embryo. However, if you experience extended or heavy bleeding—whether early or later in a confirmed pregnancy—contact your provider immediately or seek out emergency medical care.
If you are having trouble telling the difference between implantation bleeding and your period, the good news is that timing is on your side. By the day of your expected period, a pregnancy test should be able to indicate whether you’re pregnant or not. Sending you good pregnancy vibes!