In this blog we talk about the implantation bleeding. This is when you lose some blood because the fertilized egg has attached itself to the uterine wall. We also explain the major differences between implantation bleeding and your period. If you recognize the implantation bleeding early, there is a good chance that you will find out early on that you are pregnant. How to recognize it, you can read here.
What is a conception bleed?
During implantation bleeding, there may be a slight breakthrough bleeding. This occurs at the time when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall. This bleeding normally takes place one or two weeks after the fertilization of the egg. This often coincides with your scheduled period. The bleeding may last for a few days (Walker, 2022).
Difference between implantation bleeding and menstruation
The biggest differences are the amount, color and physical symptoms. Conception blood, compared to menstrual blood, is only a few drops. The color of implantation blood is often brown or light pink and not red. While you are bleeding, pay attention to your symptoms. Do you notice nausea, light cramps and frequent need to go to the bathroom? puddles? Then this probably indicates implantation bleeding. Still don't feel well and have doubts about the bleeding? Then contact your family doctor (Walker, 2022).
Can I take a pregnancy test right away?
Yes, you can take a pregnancy test right away. However, we recommend you wait a few days for an extra reliable result. A pregnancy test measures the hCG hormone in your urine. These levels rise rapidly in the beginning of the pregnancy, so you should see a positive result (Snell, 2009). Want to read more about how best to take a pregnancy test? Then read this blog.
Does every woman get implantation bleeding?
No, not every woman experiences implantation bleeding. This bleeding occurs only in 15-25% of pregnant women. Do keep a close eye on this, in some cases it may indicate a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy (Snell, 2009).
Many women often do not yet have the awareness that they are pregnant during the period of implantation bleeding. If you suspect you are pregnant or you get breakthrough bleeding around your scheduled period, take a pregnancy test. If you have any doubts or questions, contact your doctor.
Want to know exactly how implantation works? Then read this blog.
Sources:
Snell, B. J. (2009, November 12). Assessment and Management of Bleeding in the First Trimester of Pregnancy. Wiley Online Library. Accessed February 9, 2022, from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1016/j.jmwh.2009.08.007
Walker, J. (2022, January 11). What you need to know about implantation blossoms. Clearblue. Accessed February 9, 2022, from https://nl.clearblue.com/ben-ik-zwanger/innestelingsbloedingen?gclid=CjwKCAiA6Y2QBhAtEiwAGHybPfdtUtpaYAEkS4CIaVa52GXCXPECuKxtY1S9kFMEJ112ji2X2cZAchoC4v8QAvD_BwE