Overview
“Is it my period, or am I pregnant?” Implantation bleeding occurs when a fertilized egg embeds in the uterine lining. It is a sign of early pregnancy and could cause light spotting and bleeding similar to light period. Both can cause pinkish-brown spots which can last for a few days, making it difficult to differentiate the two.
While not everyone experiences implantation bleeding, seeing blood can be alarming. This blog will explore how to differentiate between implantation bleeding and a period.
What are the differences between implantation bleeding and period?
Implantation bleeding can easily be confused with early period spotting. The following signs can help you discern between the two.
Color
Menstrual or period blood appears light pink or brown to crimson or dark red. It typically occurs at the start of your monthly cycle. Implantation bleeding is much lighter and may appear very light pink or rust-colored.
Consistency and amount
You may experience only spotting or very light flow during implantation bleeding. It is never enough to fill a pad or tampon, and women sometimes notice it only when they wipe. The period can get heavier as the cycle progresses.
Clotting
Clots in the bleeding are a tell-tale sign that it is a period. According to a 2022 study, clots typically occur when menstrual flow is heavy. Implantation bleeding should never be accompanied by clotting.
Cramping
Implantation bleeding cramps are light and often short-lived. Period cramps are intense and can last the duration of your cycle.
Duration
Your period may last anywhere from 3-7 days, while implantation bleeding can last anywhere from a few hours to three days.
Smell
Implantation bleeding typically does not have an odor. However, menstrual blood can often have a slight smell, normally metallic or copper.
Is implantation bleeding a concern?
Implantation bleeding is not a sign of concern as it does not present any risk or harm to the embryo. It should go away within a few days. But if it persists longer than three days with a gradual increase in flow, talk to a doctor.
Implantation bleeding occurs 6-12 days after egg fertilization. Most women have not even taken the pregnancy test yet. If you are experiencing vaginal bleeding past the first trimester, seek immediate emergency care.
Alisa M Wormington, an APRN-NP at Olsen Center for Women’s Health at Durham Outpatient Center, shares,
“About 25% of women will experience implantation bleeding during the first trimester.”
When to take a pregnancy test?
If you are experiencing light bleeding and are not sure if it is from implantation or your period, taking a pregnancy test can help. The day you are expecting to start your period is an excellent time to take a pregnancy test. If your periods are irregular, wait 21 days after unprotected sexual activity to take the test.
Why is my period so light this month? Could I be pregnant?
Light menstrual flow can be caused by stress, weight loss, age, and using medications such as birth control. Spotting could also be a sign of implantation bleeding and pregnancy and could easily be confused for a light period. If you are confused between the two, get a pregnancy test or consult a doctor.
When to consult a doctor?
Implantation bleeding is typically harmless, like period blood. However, if you are experiencing heavy bleeding, clotting, or dark-colored blood during pregnancy, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Bloody and discolored vaginal discharge could indicate an infection, so it’s essential to get it checked out to avoid complications.
FAQs about implantation bleeding vs. period
Lighter periods could be the cause of seeing blood while wiping but not on the pad. Spotting can also be due to perimenopause, ovulation, stress, birth control, smoking, some health conditions, and pregnancy.
If the embryo fails to implant, menstrual bleeding should start after 3-14 days. If you already have your period, you might have to wait longer for the cycle to resume, typically 28 days. If you are not getting your period, talk to your healthcare provider, as it could indicate some medical condition.
