Implantation Bleeding Symptoms

Pregnancy: Implantation Bleeding Symptoms

Three to six days after the egg is fertilized, it will implant itself into the uterus. Implantation bleeding symptoms include faint spotting and bleeding after the implantation occurs. Most women do not experience implantation bleeding and it is not considered an obvious sign of pregnancy. Implantation bleeding may mislead some women into thinking they are not pregnant.

Because bleeding due to implantation happens so soon after fertilization, it may be discounted by women who experience the spotting. The problem with implantation bleeding is that it may look just like in between menstrual period spotting. Technically, implantation bleeds are lighter in color, though it may appear pink or brown. It is also not the same thing as spotting during pregnancy.

A woman who is not trying to get pregnant may mistake implantation bleeding for a mini-period. Women working in stressful environments may experience intermittent bleeding due to other health issues related to a high-stress lifestyle. In fact, it is not uncommon for a woman to discover she is pregnant and to recall the spotty bleeding as a reason she ‘shouldn’t’ be pregnant.

Symptoms of Pregnancy

Women may suspect they are pregnant after missing a menstrual cycle. Other symptoms include:

• Increased fatigue
• Breast tenderness
• Abdominal tenderness
• Nausea
• Odd cravings
• Positive pregnancy test

Modern at-home pregnancy tests are relatively accurate in the first two weeks of pregnancy. Women may test positive for pregnancy as soon as 5 days after conception. If a woman believes she is pregnant and takes an at-home test that tests positive, it’s often advisable to take a second test 5 days later to confirm or to schedule an appointment with a gynecologist. A blood test is by far the most accurate test of pregnancy.

Bleeding while Pregnant

Bleeding during pregnancy may indicate other problems, but it should not be assumed as a negative symptom immediately. Bleeding that lasts for more than 5 days or is accompanied by heavy clotting or pelvic pain should be reported to your physician.

• Miscarriages – Bleeding in early pregnancy does not always indicate a miscarriage. Most miscarriages occur in the first 12 weeks, but half of women who reported bleeding or spotting during those 12 weeks did not miscarry. If bleeding and spotting do occur and you are concerned, always consult your physician.
• Ectopic Pregnancy – Bleeding may occur if a woman has an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that has implanted in the fallopian tube). This bleeding is often accompanied by severe discomfort. Ectopic pregnancies are rarer than miscarriages.

When to Worry About Implantation Bleeding or any Bleeding

Pregnant women should be concerned about bleeding if it is heavy or accompanied by cramps or discomfort. Implantation bleeding symptoms may also occur after artificial insemination. If bleeding is persistent, contact your physician as soon as possible..