Whether you’re trying to get pregnant or not, spotting between periods could be a sign of pregnancy. Some women experience spotting when the fertilized egg (embryo) is implanted in the lining of the uterus — an event known as implantation bleeding. Show
However, it’s worth noting that implantation bleeding isn’t the only explanation. So if you notice spotting, don’t jump to the instant conclusion that you’re pregnant. While this may be a sign of the beginning of pregnancy, it could be other things too... What Is Implantation Bleeding?Approximately every month, a woman’s uterine lining thickens to prepare for pregnancy. If impregnation does not occur, the uterus sheds that lining. This shedding is what we call a period or menses. Most women have a period on a predictable cycle typically anywhere from every 21-35 days for adults). The normal duration of a period is usually 5-7 days. Every woman’s cycle is different and some women experience irregular periods, heavier periods, and/or spotting between periods. Let’s understand a little more about implantation bleeding. During your reproductive years—basically from when your period (menarche) begins to when it ends (menopause). It’s defined by an event, on approximately day 13 to 15 of a 28-day menstrual cycle, during which your ovary releases an oocyte from a follicle. The oocyte then travels to the fallopian tube and awaits fertilization with sperm. Once ovulation occurs, the oocyte can be fertilized by sperm. At this point, timing is of the essence. After ovulation, you have about 12-24 hours for fertilization to occur. However, it’s worth noting that sperm can live inside a female body for up to 5 days so the window for intercourse to result in pregnancy is longer than just a couple of days. If the egg is not fertilized during that time, it disintegrates (breaks down) and menstruation (your period) begins 11-16 days later. But if the egg is fertilized, it travels through the fallopian tube toward the womb, or uterus, where it will implant in the uterine wall or endometrium. Doctors refer to the fertilized egg as an embryo after fertilization Implantation bleeding is thought to happen when the fertilized egg (embryo) attaches to the lining of the uterus (endometrium), sometimes causing little blood vessels to burst. The endometrium recovers easily from implantation, but some women experience light spotting or brown discharge as a result of the event in their early pregnancy. It’s worth noting that many women who are pregnant do not experience implantation bleeding. So some spotting or bleeding is neither a guarantee you’re pregnant nor one that pregnancy hasn't occurred. Implantation Bleeding Versus Menstrual BleedingIt’s easy for women to confuse implantation with a period. This can lead to further confusion about the date of conception. And it’s could be possible that implantation bleeding is similar to a normal period. However, there are key differences that can be helpful when trying to distinguish between the two. Remember, after all, that women experience their period or menstrual cycle very differently from each other. However, for the vast majority of women who experience implantation bleeding or spotting, there are some notable differences, which we’ll outline in the table below. When Does Implantation Bleeding Happen?According to the American Pregnancy Association, “About 6-12 days after conception (when the sperm joins with the egg), the embryo will implant itself into the wall of the uterus. This movement may break down some blood vessels within the uterus wall and cause some bleeding.” This timing explains why so many women confuse implantation bleeding for an early period. Menstruation (your period) occurs around 11-14 days after ovulation. Implantation bleeding typically happens within the week before your period is expected. Other Symptoms That Accompany Implantation BleedingImplantation can also be accompanied by other symptoms. Again, it is worth reiterating that implantation can go wholly unnoticed for many women. These symptoms might also be confused for usual premenstrual symptoms. Women, who are used to experiencing their monthly cycle and period with these symptoms, may not realize pregnancy has occurred. According to the American Pregnancy Association, some of the symptoms that can accompany implantation bleeding include:
Implantation Bleeding or Period: How to Tell…Given the timing and list of accompanying symptoms, it’s evident it can be very difficult to tell the difference between implantation bleeding and period. The absolute best way to tell if the bleeding is your period is to wait a few days and take a pregnancy test (or have one administered by your doctor). The timing of your last sexual encounter can also help. If it was more than two weeks ago, it’s unlikely you’re experiencing implantation bleeding. According to the American Pregnancy Association, “Often, taking a pregnancy test before the missed period or during implantation bleeding is just too soon for tests to offer conclusive results. Ideally, waiting a week after the spotting or missed period is most desirable as the results should prove more accurate.” However, even if the light bleeding is not implantation bleeding, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s your period either. Intermenstrual bleeding may be caused by many things. And there are other reasons women could experience spotting. Let’s look at some of the other things that might cause spotting. Brown Discharge, Light Bleeding or Spotting: There Can Be Other Causes….As we said at the start of this article, implantation bleeding is just one explanation of spotting between periods. Spotting does not mean pregnancy, necessarily. The truth is there are many possible explanations of light bleeding or spotting between periods. Some of these, you’ll be able to rule out on your own (e.g. if you’re not on medication). But others will require a doctor’s visit to test for and rule out. This list is not exhaustive, but these are the most common causes of light bleeding or spotting between periods. Other Menstrual Cycle Related Causes
Birth Control & Hormonal Contraceptives
External Causes
Common InfectionsThe following infections may cause irregular bleeding or spotting between periods. It’s worth noting that most infections are treatable. However, infections can become more serious if symptoms are ignored.
Other Causes
Perimenopause & Menopause
When to Seek Medical AdviceMany of us can be reluctant to consult medical professionals about menstrual or intermenstrual concerns, including spotting. However, if you’re experiencing unusual spotting or stress and anxiety due to uncertainty, it’s always worth talking to your healthcare provider. If there’s nothing to worry about, they’ll be able to set your mind at ease. However, there are times when spotting or bleeding between periods could be a cause for concern. And if that’s the case, the sooner you see a doctor, the better. If spotting is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, it always warrants getting some medical advice.
Even if you don’t have any of the above symptoms, don’t ever ignore spotting, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or abnormal uterine bleeding in the following situations:
What to Expect at Your Doctor’s VisitIf you suspect you might be pregnant you should visit your doctor as soon as possible to be administered a pregnancy test. But, if spotting between periods is not explained by implantation or pregnancy, your doctor will want to know the following:
The doctor may also examine you. The tests ordered will depend upon your age, the information you provide her about the bleeding, and other factors. She’ll also likely order bloodwork to check your blood count and see if you’re anemic. Other diagnostic tests may include:
Track Your Cycle in a Journal or AppIt’s a really good idea to start tracking your cycle and any other non-period bleeding in a journal or app. This can help you understand the rhythms of your own body and track the likelihood of pregnancy. Remember, everybody has their own cycle and flow and it may be affected by many factors, both internal and external. When you’re tracking, pay attention to spotting, but also other symptoms, including:
You can even make notes about sudden increases in libido or mood changes. Remember that spotting may be a symptom of many different causes. If spotting continues, seek medical advice. Have the information you've tracked in your diary medically reviewed by your doctor. This will help you speak to your doctor with more certainty and provide them valuable information to help with a diagnosis. For women trying to get pregnant, tracking their cycle in an app or journal will also help track ovulation and understand the "fertile window". Your most fertile days ("the fertile window") are the 5 days leading up to and including ovulation. Having sex during the fertile window gives you the best chance of pregnancy. In ConclusionIf you’re spotting before or in place of your period, implantation bleeding is one possible explanation. However, people can experience spotting for many reasons. Spotting or bleeding may be caused by implantation. But it’s also possible there’s another explanation. While implantation can cause spotting, there’s a long list of other reasons women may experience spotting. It’s also possible to confuse implantation bleeding or spotting with a period. The best course of action is to wait a few days and take a pregnancy test or see your doctor. If spotting is ever accompanied by pain, nausea, or cramping or if the bleeding becomes heavy, it’s advised to seek medical advice immediately. Medically reviewed by Dr. Chimsom T. Oleka, M.D, Written by Jane Flanagan — Updated on September 20, 2021. Does implantation happen 2 weeks after period?Check the timing
Implantation occurs around 1-2 weeks after fertilization. This puts it near or just before the time of menstruation in most cases. If it has been more than a month since a female has had sex, they are unlikely to be experiencing implantation bleeding.
Can implantation bleeding happen 15 days after period?Implantation bleeding occurs early, around days 24 to 28 of your menstrual cycle. If you experienced some light bleeding before 15 DPO, it may have been the first sign of your pregnancy. However, not everyone experiences this symptom. In some cases, the bleeding is so light that you don't notice it.
Is it normal to have implantation bleeding after period?Implantation bleeding can occur about 10-14 days after conception when the fertilized egg attaches to the interior lining of the uterus. This movement of the egg can result in light bleeding or spotting, which is completely normal and should not require any kind of medical attention.
Can implantation happen 3 weeks after period?Implantation bleeding normally occurs about 3 weeks after the previous menstrual period, which is about a week after ovulation. It differs from the menstrual period because it does not come with any other form of pain, such as a backache or cramping.
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