When does implantation occur?
Implantation typically occurs 6-12 days after ovulation/fertilization, although some sources give it a wider range of 5-14 days.
The average is 8 or 9 days after ovulation/fertilization. This puts implantation bleeding window just a day or so before a woman would otherwise expect her period.
For some women, it may overlap. For this reason, it is important to differentiate implantation bleeding from a typical first day menstrual cycle by color, consistency, and intensity.
The difference between implantation bleeding and menstrual bleeding
Since implantation bleeding can occur around the same time as menstruation, here are some key differences to look for:
- Implantation bleeding is pinkish/brownish in color. Period blood is redder. Wearing a white pantyliner or white underwear can help accurately determine the shade.
- Implantation bleeding has a thinner, “waterier” consistency and does not contain clots.
- Implantation bleeding is more like spotting or discharge. It does not turn into a heavy, bloody flow like periods do.
- Implantation bleeding can be accompanied by light cramping, which many women find less painful and/or different from their typical period cramps.
- Implantation bleeding typically lasts only 1-2 days, versus 5-7 days of bleeding with a normal menstrual cycle.
Stress or a change in medication can cause changes in menstrual patterns, it’s true, but those changes are generally foreseeable and recognizable. A woman with a fairly regular cycle will be quick to notice a seemingly unexplained pinker/lighter/milder period when a pregnancy is possible.
