What is Implantation Bleeding: Symptoms and causes

Implantation bleeding is defined as a small amount bleeding which happens when  the fertilised egg or embryo implants to the lining of the uterus. Implantation bleeding usually occurs about 10 to 14 days after the conception or around the time of your usual periods. Implantation bleeding is one of the early signs of pregnancy . It is a common occurrence in early pregnancy and usually not a sign of a problem. 

However, every woman who is pregnant won’t experience implantation bleeding.

Some women get it, some don’t and others get it but don't notice it because it is very light. Sometimes, pregnant women may mistake it as light period or spotting because it happens around the time of menstrual cycle. 

What does implantation bleeding look like?

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Implantation bleeding can be seen as light spotting or a very light period. The implantation blood can appear when you wipe or can need a panty liner if the flow is consistent. This also doesn’t last as long as your normal periods and you may get mild cramps. The fresh blood can appear as bright or dark red. It can also look pink if it gets mixed with the vaginal discharge. If the blood is old it can react with oxygen and the blood may look brown. 

Symptoms of implantation bleeding:

• Tender or swollen breasts 
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Food cravings 
• Mood swings
• Peeing more often 

There can be various other causes of bleeding during pregnancy, which can be very dangerous to the foetus. Some of the reasons can be: 

• Fibroids and polyps can be a cause for bleeding during pregnancy.

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• Certain sexually transmitted infections can cause light bleeding and are very serious issue. 

• Ectopic pregnancy is also a reason for bleeding during pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy happens when the embryo implants outside your uterus. 

• Miscarriage is one of the reasons that can cause bleeding along with cramps. 

Do call your doctor immediately if you know you're pregnant and having unusual bleeding. Implantation bleeding usually stops on its own but If you’re not sure whether you’re having implantation bleeding, or if you doubt getting pregnant do take a pregnancy test to rule out the cause and consult your doctor.