Implantation bleeding occurs around 10-14 days after the egg fuses with a sperm to form an embryo. This usually happens about seven days prior to your regular period.
When the egg gets fertilized by a sperm, you may have conceived. The fertilized egg then begins its transition, whilst moving towards the uterus. By the time it reaches the uterus, it turns into a new mass of cells and the journey may take up to two weeks. After reaching the womb, the cell attaches itself to the uterine wall, by burrowing through the tiny blood vessels. The rupture of these tiny blood cells causes implantation bleeding.
Not all women experience this or some may fail to take note, because it is light and lasts for a very short time. Most often, implantation bleeding is confused with period, as it occurs around the same time. Some women may not even realise that they are pregnant, assuming they have had a light period. Also, some women report experiencing light bleeding during the first trimester, in the first 8 weeks, despite of being pregnant. This is however, said to be normal in some pregnancies.
Should you be alarmed?
Implantation bleeding is considered normal and stops on its own within a few hours to 2 days and does not require treatment of any kind. It is better to be sure about having conceived by taking a home pregnancy test, when you also feel other common pregnancy symptoms such as vomiting, tender breasts, fatigue, headaches or mood changes.
If the bleeding gets heavier and if you notice any clots, it can be a sign of miscarriage and you should consult your doctor immediately for treatment. In some rare cases, light spotting may indicate ectopic pregnancy. This means pregnancy has occurred outside of the uterus and is considered to be very dangerous for the woman. Ectopic pregnancies cannot be continued and need to be treated immediately. These are rare occurrences, but it is better to rule out these possibilities.
