Implantation bleeding or spotting - the first indication of pregnancy

An implantation bleeding is a light bleeding that occurs when a fertilized egg starts to implant into the lining of the uterus, the endometrium. Implantation bleeding typically occur between six and twelve days after ovulation. If you have been keeping a close eye on your menstrual cycles and are aware of the date of your ovulation, an implantation bleeding is very telling, and the first indication that you have conceived during that cycle. In other words, an implantation bleeding is the very first sign of pregnancy.

About a third of pregnant women experience an implantation bleeding, according to most research. The bleeding itself is generally more like a very light spotting, which can last anywhere up to two days. More often, women will just notice a few drops of blood in their underwear. The color of the spotting can vary, but the blood that is expelled is most old blood and can be dark brown or pinkish (excuse me for offering too much information, but this is caused by mucus mixing with blood), or dark red. Some women will notice some cramping with an implantation bleeding. The uterine wall is rich in blood and tissue, and it is no wonder that some bleeding and cramping can take place when a fertilized egg implants itself there, in preparation for nine months of pregnancy!

Cramping with an implantation bleeding does not indicate a miscarriage. At the same time, it's important to be aware that most miscarriages take place very early on, and before a missed period. These are known as chemical pregnancies. If you have noticed an implantation bleeding, you can go ahead and take a home pregnancy test immediately. Some tests are very sensitive and if your body has already produced adequate levels of hCG, the test might just be positive. You will have much better chances of getting accurate test results of you test on the date that your period was expected, however. If you are looking for other signs and symptoms of pregnancy, you can take a look at our complete list of pregnancy signs!