One of the symptoms of pregnancy that can cause worry for women is spotting from implantation. The usual cause of light bleeding in early pregnancy is implantation of the fertilized egg, which is called implantation bleeding. While not all implantation will result in spotting, it is common enough that about 1 in every 4 women will experience it according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Implantation bleeding occurs when the fertilized egg implants itself in the uterine wall, and it usually happens about 7 to 14 days after conception. Because the uterus lining is primarily blood, a small discharge of blood is commonly released when implantation occurs. Some women might mistake this spotting as the start of a period so if you are trying to have a child be sure to take a pregnancy test to see if it's a false alarm or if you are going to be a new mom.
What Does Implantation Bleeding Look Like?
Bleeding due to implantation is characteristically a small volume of pink or brown vaginal discharge. Roughly 25% of women actually experience implantation bleeding as a symptom of pregnancy.
If this bleeding is from implantation, it will be more like spotting rather than a steady flow of blood you would get with your period. So if you have been trying to get pregnant, and it's getting close to your period, you might think that the spotting from implantation is actually from your period. If you have any questions, an early pregnancy test will likely be able to tell you within about 9-11 days after ovulation.
When During Conception Does Implantation Bleeding Happen?
Any time implantation of a fertilized egg occurs, bleeding can occur. Formal and informal implantation bleeding statistics we have seen published put the average between 7-13 days after ovulation, with about 72% of participating women reporting their implantation bleeding in this window.
Is There Any Reason I Should Worry About Implantation Bleeding?
Since bleeding or discharge due to implantation releases such a small amount of blood, there is no real cause for alarm. If the spotting or bleeding appears with an achy back, or cramping, or the bleeding is heavy (like a period), then you should talk to your OBGYN or healthcare provider.
There is no reason to be alarmed because some women experience cramps that feel like menstrual cramps early in pregnancy because the uterus is beginning to expand to make room for the embryo to grow into a fetus. While the early stages of pregnancy can feel like an uphill battle, a planned pregnancy is always worth the challenge!
Disclaimer: It's important to exercise due diligence when obtaining relevant information in matters pertaining to your health. Always consult with your healthcare provider with any and all serious questions. This article is meant to be educational only and not meant to diagnose anything.