Implantation bleeding

What does implantation bleeding mean?

Implantation bleeding: Light spotting around the time a period is due, which can happen in early pregnancy.

How it is used in the Splash library

• Light spotting around when your period was due (Implantation bleeding)

  From “Early pregnancy signs & when to test”

• A very light bleed or spotting around the time your period is due (sometimes called implantation bleeding)

  From “Early pregnancy symptoms and testing”

• Implantation bleeding is light spotting that some people notice when a fertilised egg attaches to the lining of the womb.

  From “Implantation bleeding: what it looks like and when”

• Early pregnancy: light pink or brown Implantation bleeding can happen around when a period is due.

  From “Brown discharge: what it means and when to check”

Implantation bleeding explained

Implantation bleeding is light spotting that some people notice when a fertilised egg attaches to the lining of the womb. It is one possible early sign of pregnancy, but many people don't have it.

It happens around the same time a period would be due, so it is easy to mistake for a light period.

What's typical

Implantation usually happens 8 to 10 days after ovulation, with a range of about 6 to 12 days (Wilcox, 1999). Any bleeding tends to appear around then, or a few days before your period would be due.

It is usually light pink or brown, much lighter than a period, and lasts from a few hours to a couple of days. It shouldn't need more than a panty liner and doesn't usually include clots.

Light bleeding in early pregnancy is common and often harmless, but it is worth checking (NHS).

When to talk to a GP, nurse or pharmacist

• You have bleeding with pain on one side of your tummy, shoulder-tip pain, or feel faint. Get urgent help.
• You have a positive pregnancy test and any bleeding. Contact a GP, midwife or early pregnancy unit.
• Bleeding is heavy, has clots, or you keep getting spotting between periods and are not pregnant.

In the UK you can call NHS 111 for advice at any time. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US). This is general information, not medical advice.