Answer From Mary Marnach, M.D. Show
Implantation bleeding is defined as a small amount of light spotting or bleeding. It typically occurs about 10 to 14 days after conception. Implantation bleeding is common, and it usually isn't a sign of a problem. Implantation bleeding is thought to happen when the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. Implantation bleeding usually occurs around the time you would expect to have a menstrual period. However, implantation bleeding is lighter than menstrual bleeding. Some people don't experience implantation bleeding and others don't notice it. Sometimes, implantation bleeding is mistaken for a light period. If this happens, you might not realize that you're pregnant. This can lead to mistakes when determining a baby's due date. A fetal ultrasound — typically done during the first trimester of pregnancy — can help accurately determine the baby's due date. Implantation bleeding is light, stops on its own and doesn't require treatment. If you're concerned about any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, contact your health care provider. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips
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. Implantation bleeding is light bleeding from the vagina that happens in some women 10 to 14 days after conceiving a baby. You may think it’s just a light period, but it’s an early sign of pregnancy. It’s not dangerous, and you don’t need treatment. But heavy bleeding (more than you’d have with a typical period) can be a sign of a problem. Call your doctor if you bleed a lot, with or without fever, chills, or have cramps that get worse. After a sperm fertilizes your egg, the combination becomes an embryo.
It travels to your uterus, where it implants itself into the lining. Sometimes, as the embryo attaches, it causes a little bleeding. This usually happens about the time you would have your period. You may even confuse it with your period and not realize you’re pregnant. Implantation bleeding is normal and doesn’t mean you or your baby will have problems. Implantation bleeding tends to happen before you notice morning sickness. You might have: It’s probably implantation bleeding if you have some of the other signs of early pregnancy, including: If you’re not sure whether you’re having implantation bleeding or your period, take a pregnancy test or talk to your doctor. Unlike most periods, it usually stops after 1 or 2 days. It will stop on its own. If you're worried that you've bled a lot, call your doctor. They may want to know how much blood you saw and what color it was. Many things can cause bleeding in pregnant women, some of them harmless and some serious. If you’re bleeding a lot, with or without pain or cramping at any time, call your doctor. If you’re pregnant and see blood in your underwear, it may be caused by: Sex. Hormonal and physical changes may be to blame for this. It should stop on its own. Fibroids and polyps. Your doctor might do some tests to check for these growths on your uterus. Cervical problems. Conditions like infection or growths on your cervix can also cause bleeding. Infection. Sexually transmitted diseases like trichomoniasis can cause light bleeding as well as more serious problems. Starting treatment as soon as possible will keep your baby healthy. Ectopic pregnancy. This is when an embryo implants outside your uterus. You may have bleeding with pain and cramps. It’s dangerous and needs medical care right away. Miscarriage. About 15% of known pregnancies end during the first few months. Most women bleed and cramp afterward. Call your doctor right away if you know that you're pregnant and you have these symptoms. When to See a DoctorCall your doctor if the bleeding doesn’t stop after a few days or if you’re worried about how much you are bleeding. Can implantation bleeding look like a normal period?Implantation bleeding may initially resemble the start of a menstrual period. However, while menstrual flow will usually get progressively heavier, implantation bleeding will not. On a pad: Implantation bleeding is usually light and, therefore, should not soak a pad.
Is it possible to have heavy implantation bleeding?"Some people experience implantation bleeding as heavy as the first day of their menstrual cycle, but it typically only lasts a couple of days," says Jay M.
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