Medically reviewed by Holly Almond, RN, BSN.
Implantation bleeding is light spotting that can occur when your fertilized egg implants in the wall of your uterus.
It doesn’t happen to everyone; you can still be pregnant without implantation bleeding.
Implantation bleeding doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong. In a healthy pregnancy, it can be normal to experience some light spotting very early. However, if you’re concerned at all about bleeding in early pregnancy, talk to your OBGYN.
Why does implantation bleeding happen?
The lining of your uterus is thick and full of blood vessels around the time your egg is fertilized. The process of your fertilized egg implanting in the wall can cause some blood vessels to break.
What’s the difference between implantation bleeding and your period?
Implantation bleeding is:
- Light in flow
- Brownish-pink in color
- Only lasts from a few hours to a couple of days
- Light cramping
Your period is:
- Heavier in flow
- Bright or dark red in color
- Lasts about 3-7 days
- Can be accompanied by heavier cramping
Should I take a pregnancy test?
If you’re experiencing a lighter-than-normal period, consider the possibility that it could be implantation bleeding. Take a pregnancy test in case your spotting is actually a missed period!
Read more: PMS or Pregnancy? Understanding Early Pregnancy Symptoms
Adrienne Bergmeier
Adrienne Bergmeier is a Communications Coordinator at The Pregnancy Network.