What Is Implantation Bleeding?

Implantation bleeding is a common condition that affects some women during pregnancy. It occurs when there is a small amount of bleeding or spotting as the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. Implantation bleeding is not necessarily indicative of a problem, and it is usually considered a normal part of pregnancy.

About 25% of pregnancies experience implantation bleeding. The bleeding usually happens six to twelve days after the egg is fertilized. When the embryo attaches to the uterine wall, it sometimes displaces a small amount of blood, which leaves the uterus and exits the body. The duration of implantation bleeding varies between individuals. It may last anywhere from a few hours to two days. It is uncommon for bleeding to last 3 days or longer.

What is the Difference between Implantation Bleeding and Period Bleeding?

The main difference between implantation bleeding and period bleeding is the amount of time the bleeding lasts. Implantation bleeding usually subsides within 48 hours, whereas period bleeding lasts around a week. Implantation bleeding also tends to be spotty and period bleeding usually starts heavy and lightens over time.

Additionally, the color of blood is different between implantation bleeding and period bleeding. With implantation bleeding, the blood is more brown or dark brown with a slightly pink color. Period bleeding is bright red, pink, or brown. Furthermore, cramping is not typically associated with implantation bleeding, as it is with period bleeding.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common sign of implantation bleeding is spotty bleeding that occurs 6-12 days after the egg has been fertilized. The bleeding can last anywhere from a few hours to 2 days, and the bleeding can be intermittent. It is rare for bleeding to last 3 days or longer. Cramping is not usually associated with implantation bleeding. Typically, implantation bleeding occurs close to the time of your menstrual period, making it easily mistaken for your period.

Implantation bleeding can be an early sign of pregnancy. If you are pregnant, other symptoms that may co-occur with implantation bleeding include:

• Headache
• Bloating
• Sore breasts
• Fatigue
• Nausea

Implantation bleeding does not always mean that you are pregnant. There are several things that need to occur for a healthy pregnancy. Fertilized eggs that have successfully implanted can still end up in pregnancy loss.

Additionally, you may want to wait until implantation bleeding stops and you have missed a period before taking a pregnancy test, as it takes time for your uterus to start producing human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), which is the hormone that helps keep the uterine lining thick and supportive of the embryo. The presence of HCG is usually what causes a positive pregnancy test.

Causes

Implantation bleeding is caused by the process of the embryo attaching to the uterine wall. Sometimes during this process, a small amount of blood is displaced, which then leaves the uterus and exits the body.

Other Causes of Non-Menstrual Vaginal Bleeding

In addition to implantation bleeding, there are several other conditions that can cause vaginal bleeding between periods. Conditions include:

• Ectopic pregnancy
• Placenta previa
• Uterine fibroids or polyps
• Miscarriage
• Sexual intercourse
• Infection
• Certain hormone or fertility treatments

Consult with your healthcare provider if you are unsure what type of bleeding you have.

Diagnosis

Implantation bleeding is typically diagnosed based on symptoms. If you notice spotty or light bleeding, and it is not accompanied by cramping, and resolves within a few hours or a couple of days, it is most likely implantation bleeding. This is a normal part of pregnancy. If you are unsure or concerned about what kind of bleeding you have, please consult your healthcare provider.

Treatment

There is no required treatment for implantation bleeding. It usually resolves anywhere between a few hours to a couple of days. Wearing a thin panty liner is usually sufficient for managing the bleeding.

Prevention

There is no way to prevent implantation bleeding. It affects 1 in 4 women during pregnancy and is considered a normal part of pregnancy. It is of no risk to you or your baby.

Complications

There are no complications from implantation bleeding. It is considered a normal part of pregnancy. If you are concerned about what type of bleeding you have, please contact your Baptist Health provider.