Implantation bleeding: what is it?

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Implantation bleeding is light spotting that occurs when a fertilized egg attaches to the wall of the uterus, and can be a sign of pregnancy. It typically lasts for five to ten days and is not a cause for concern, but severe pain or increased bleeding may indicate an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage.

Implantation bleeding is light bleeding or spotting at or near the time a woman would expect her normal period. In general, a woman experiences implantation bleeding when the egg and sperm meet and then attach to the wall of the uterus. Because the lining of the uterus is rich in blood, drops of blood often come out of the vagina when the fertilized egg attaches to it. At that point, the woman may notice the spotting and may be able to conclude that she is bleeding from the egg implant. Alternatively, if the egg does not encounter a viable sperm, it will be passed out of the body during the normal menstrual cycle.

A woman can expect this type of bleeding for five to ten days after conception. Many women initially believe it is the start of their period, but when the bleeding never progresses beyond a light spot, they discover they are pregnant. When this type of bleeding occurs, the blood will typically be dark red, brown, or even black because the blood is dry when it leaves the body; there have been some reports, however, of pink spots as well.

If a woman experiences light spotting or bleeding, it could be the first sign that she is pregnant. There are several types of home pregnancy test kits designed to let a woman know whether or not she is pregnant, even several days before her period is due to start. Home pregnancy test kits work by detecting human chorionic gonadotropin, a hormone released by the placenta after the fertilized egg implants itself in the wall of the uterus. Other pregnancy symptoms that may accompany this condition include mild cramping and a slight increase in body temperature. Additionally, a pregnant woman may experience nausea, tender breasts, fatigue, frequent urination, and heightened awareness of smell.

Although many women are alarmed if they bleed in early pregnancy, implantation bleeding shouldn’t be a concern. This is completely normal and will only last a day or two. There are other causes of bleeding in early pregnancy, such as hormonal changes, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and molar pregnancy. Some of these can be fatal to the fetus, while others, such as hormonal changes, are harmless. Although complications are rare, if a woman experiences implantation bleeding and more severe pain, a doctor should be consulted. Pain or increased bleeding after implantation may be signs of an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage.




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