WHAT IS IMPLANTATION BLEEDING?

Implantation bleeding is caused when the fertilised egg embeds itself in the wall of the womb, a normal part of early pregnancy that usually occurs 10–14 days after conception. This does not always cause bleeding, or it may be so light that it is not noticed.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF IMPLANTATION BLEEDING?

Implantation bleeding is very light and usually pinkish, or sometimes brown, in colour. The blood may be visible in underwear or when you wipe yourself after going to the toilet. The amount of blood from implantation bleeding is very unlikely to be enough to soak through sanitary pads or underwear.

Implantation bleeding usually lasts for only 1–2 days, although it may last slightly longer in some women. Implantation bleeding will stop on its own and does not require any treatment.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN IMPLANTATION BLEEDING AND A PERIOD?

An implantation bleed happens in the first 2 weeks of pregnancy, and some women may mistake implantation bleeding for their period. Implantation bleeding usually occurs later than your expected period, is generally lighter, not requiring a tampon or pad, and does not last as long.

SHOULD I BE WORRIED ABOUT IMPLANTATION BLEEDING?

Bleeding from your vagina in pregnancy can be very worrying, but it does not necessarily mean that anything is seriously wrong. Light bleeding (‘spotting’) is common in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, and many women who have bleeding before 12 weeks go on to give birth successfully.

Implantation bleeding is harmless and a normal part of early pregnancy. Nevertheless, you should always contact your GP or midwife immediately if you notice any signs of vaginal bleeding, so that more serious causes can be ruled out.

WHAT ELSE MIGHT CAUSE BLEEDING DURING EARLY PREGNANCY?

In the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, the cervix undergoes changes caused by hormones released by the body when you become pregnant. These hormones cause the cervix to become softer, while its blood supply increases. In some circumstances – after sex, for example – this can lead to bleeding. If this occurs always have a check-up with your doctor

In some women, bleeding in the first 12 weeks may indicate something more serious. Bleeding may be a sign of miscarriage, which occurs in around 1 in 5 of all pregnancies. Other signs of miscarriage include:

• Cramping and pain low down in the abdomen
• Passing clots or tissue coming from the vagina
• No longer experiencing symptoms of pregnancy such as tender breasts or morning sickness.

Bleeding can also be a sign of ectopic pregnancy, when the fertilised egg implants outside the womb. Other signs of ectopic pregnancy include:

• Pain low down on one side of the abdomen
• Brown, watery discharge from the vagina
• Pain in the tip of the shoulder
• Discomfort when using the toilet.

If an ectopic pregnancy ruptures, the symptoms can be much more severe and can include:

• A severe, sharp pain in the lower abdomen
• Dizziness or fainting
• Nausea and vomiting
• Looking very pale

This is an emergency and you should call 999 or go immediately to the nearest accident and emergency department

Bleeding from the vagina in early pregnancy does not necessarily mean that anything serious is happening. However, you should always inform your GP or midwife as soon as possible if you notice bleeding from your vagina.