Five essential points to know about implantation bleeding
After conception, it takes around six to twelve weeks typically for implantation bleeding to occur. It is one of the early signs of pregnancy as it occurs when the fertilized egg attaches itself to the lining of the uterus. It is often misunderstood as the regular periods which women get as it looks similar and mostly occurs during the same period as the normal menstrual cycle. It can be confusing to identify if one is experiencing implantation bleeding, periods, or there is another, more concerning cause for the loss of blood.

Below are some factors you should know about implantation bleeding which may help one to identify the same-

Know how common implantation bleeding is
According to most doctors, implantation is one of the most common signs of pregnancy.

Know about the duration of implantation bleeding
Unlike regular periods, implantation bleeding does not last for a long time and is usually short-lived. The duration is normally anywhere between 24 to 48 hours. This is the same amount of time taken for the fertilized egg to become implanted into the uterus lining.

Know what implantation bleeding looks like
Usually, a normal menstrual bleeding lasts anywhere between three to five days. It starts with heavy bleeding and tends to lighten as the days pass. Also, period blood is usually red in color while in the case of implantation bleeding, the color of the blood is usually black or dark brown. This is because the blood is older. However, sometimes it can be red or pink as well resembling the normal period blood. However; unlike periods, the flow is not heavy in implantation periods. The only thing one may notice is some light spotting of few drops. Since about 50 percent of the pregnancies are unplanned and the signs and symptoms of periods and implantation bleeding are similar, it is often mistaken as regular periods.

Know probable reasons for bleeding during pregnancy aside from implantation bleeding
A woman’s egg becomes an embryo after the sperm fertilizes in it. The embryo then travels in the uterus and implants itself into the lining. Sometimes during this process, a little bleeding is caused known as implantation bleeding. However, there is no problem caused to the baby that develops.

There are other reasons as well that may cause bleeding apart from implantation. Bleeding during pregnancy can be caused during sex due to the hormonal and physical changes that the body goes through. The bleeding can also be caused due to ectopic pregnancy. This is when an embryo is implanted outside the uterus. One may face severe pain and cramps along with bleeding in this situation and it is essential to consult the doctor immediately. Miscarriages too cause painful cramps and bleeding especially if they occur in the first few months of the pregnancy and any woman who is pregnant and facing these symptoms needs to consult the doctor immediately.

Know about the treatment for implantation bleeding
Usually, there is no treatment needed for implantation bleeding and it stops on its own. However, if one is worried that instead of spots, they have bled a lot, it is important to call the doctor as soon as possible. The doctor may inquire about the amount of bleeding that occurred and the color of the blood. However, in most cases, implantation bleeding is not a huge concern and simply an early sign that one is pregnant.