Implantation bleeding is often confused with regular menstrual bleeding by most women who are trying to conceive. Of course, spotting any amount of blood when you are hoping to get pregnant can be worrisome, but it happens in the initial days of pregnancy in some cases.
How to tell if it is implantation bleeding or period?
It can be a little hard to differentiate between the two in the first few days, as they may appear to be the same. About 25% of women experience some amount of bleeding in the early pregnancy stage, without developing any other issues and carry on with their pregnancy till full term.
Implantation bleeding
This occurs when the cluster of cells resulting after the fusion of egg and sperm moves to the uterus and burrows into the wall. As it settles into the uterine lining, small blood vessels around it rupture and the blood is discharged through vagina.
- Implantation bleeding occurs at least a week before your period. If you keep track of your ovulation cycles, you will be able to identify it.
- This is light in color as compared to your period.
- This is usually seen as light spotting and does not increase in flow like period.
- This bleeding may last from 2-3 days. In some cases, it lasts only a few hours.
- Implantation bleeding may be accompanied by cramping, which is similar to a period, but if you experience other symptoms such as nausea, mood swings, tenderness of breasts, headaches, fatigue or cravings, then you may be pregnant.
Menstrual bleeding
- Starts off as pale red or brownish in color, but soon changes to bright red.
- The flow may be very light in the first one or two days, but it keeps growing steadily for the next few days.
- Lasts from 4 to 7 days in most cases
- You may see blood clots and tissues in your regular period.
- You may experience cramps in lower abdomen, legs or lower back. Or you may have migraines like you usually do, when on period.
You know your body well, so if you notice anything that feels different from what you usually experience, you should get it checked. Also, if you suspect your bleeding may not be normal, it is better to consult your doctor soon.
