Implantation Bleeding

Implantation bleeding is a type of breakthrough bleeding. In other words, it is bleeding that takes place between menstrual cycles. Implantation bleeding occurs during very early pregnancy when the egg burrows itself into the lining of the very vascular uterus. This makes a tiny bit of spotting, seldom enough to soak a sanitary panty liner. Implantation bleeding is typically either pinkish or brownish in color and lasts approximately one to two days. It is usually accompanied by a minor amount of mucous.

Implantation bleeding typically occurs between six to twelve days after ovulation but can occur on the same due date of menses. A few women mistake implantation bleeding for a light period and are later shocked to discover they are farther along than they calculated. Others may think that implantation bleeding is the only type of mid-cycle bleeding that can occur. There are several reasons for breakthrough bleeding, however. Any bleeding prior to your period could be ovulation blood, spotting from the rupture of a cyst, irritation from an infection or pollyp, or cervix irritation from sex. Any spotting after twelve days post ovulation is usually due to menstruation, but if your period is noticeably lighter, shorter, has no clots, and is not accompanied by the typical feeling of flow, it might be implantation bleeding. Occasionally, implantation bleeding is accompanied by mild cramping. Most of the time, the cramps are not noticeable, or they feel similar to a full sensation in the uterus.

Implantation Bleeding only occurs in about a third of all pregnancies, so if you do not experience implantation bleeding, it may be a non issue. Some women experience implantation bleeding with every pregnancy, with only one, or never. In addition to the fact that some women never experience implantation bleeding, the amount of blood may be so scant, you may have it and not notice it. If you experience a discharge that you feel might be implantation bleeding, a pregnancy test should be most accurate around the time your normal menstrual period is due. Be sure to write your experiences on the calendar in case you have questions later for your obgyn. Most women don't even know to look for implantation bleeding, so it may go unnoticed. Couples who are trying to conceive actively seek implantation bleeding and often panic if they don't experience it, which leads to unnecessary frustration.