Implantation bleeding can happen when a fertilised egg nestles into the uterine lining. It can be one of the first symptoms of pregnancy effecting around 25% of women. There may be some light spotting and its not unusual to think that this may be the start of your period. If you have been trying for a baby and your in the 2 week wait, implantation bleeding can be a worry if its mistaken for the start of a period. The signs can be similar to an impending period but there are a few things to look out for.
Signs of implantation bleeding
- Length of flow. Bleeding or spotting lasts 1 – 3 days. A period will usually last from 4 – 7 days. If you have a much shorter ‘period’ than usual there is a good chance its implantation bleeding.
- Consistency. A period usually starts light and gets heavier over time. Implantation bleeding tends to be more on and off and remains light.
- Colour. Blood is usually a pinky brown colour where as a period may start of pinky or brown but soon turns red.
- Cramping. Implantation cramping is usually light and short lived unlike period cramps that can be more intense and last longer.
- Strength of flow. Bleeding is usually very light spotting. Perhaps a little when you wipe and a little on a pad but not usually any more than that. A period will start off light but soon get heavier.
If implantation bleeding has occurred there may be some other pregnancy symptoms to look out for including:
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Lower back pain
- Headaches
- Mood swings
- Breast tenderness
These pregnancy symptoms are caused by an increase in the pregnancy hormones but can all be experienced during a period also. A pregnancy test really is the only way to confirm a pregnancy.
Implantation bleeding and IVF
Implantation bleeding is common after IVF. It usually happens 5 – 7 days after transfer and effects 1 in 4. If you do start bleeding it’s important to continue taking any medication you have been prescribed until you have taken a pregnancy test.
Bleeding after a positive test.
Bleeding during pregnancy (after a positive test) is considered abnormal. Not all bleeding is an emergency or sign of complications but your doctor will want to perform tests such as a virginal ultrasound or Blood test.