How Long Does Implantation Bleeding Last?

Implantation bleeding is light bleeding or spotting that occurs one to two weeks after an egg is fertilized and attaches itself to the uterus. It’s unlikely to resemble a period because of how light the bleeding is. It may appear similar to vaginal discharge in terms of the amount produced.

The light bleeding can last from a few hours to a few days, and it’s rare for it to continue past three days. It’s important to note that if spotting or bleeding lasts longer than three days, it is likely caused by something other than conception and should be addressed by a healthcare provider.

How Long Does Implantation Bleeding Last?

Implantation bleeding can last for a couple of hours to three days. If the bleeding lasts longer than three days, it is likely caused by your period or something else.1

The Timeline of Implantation Bleeding

Roughly six to 12 days after fertilization of an egg, the egg attaches itself to the uterus. In the process, it may break down some blood vessels and cause bleeding.

Since menstruation occurs in roughly the same window of time, it’s easy to initially mistake one for the other, especially if you typically have light and short periods. However, the two have some stark differences in flow, color, and duration.

Typical periods tend to start heavier and lighten over a few days to a week. Implantation bleeding is always light, from the time it starts to the time it stops.2

What Does Implantation Bleeding Look Like?

Implantation bleeding will appear pinkish, brown, or dark brown and spotty. It is often similar to discharge in the sense that it is not enough to fill up a pad or tampon and is likely seen only in the underwear or after wiping.

In contrast, a period will be heavier, redder, and come with more cramps than implantation bleeding.2

Other Symptoms of Early Pregnancy

You may or may not develop implantation bleeding if you are pregnant. That said, other early signs of pregnancy could indicate that you are pregnant if they occur around the time of your missed period or shortly after. They include:4

• Nausea (morning sickness)
• Fatigue
• Emotional changes, such as feeling upset or irritable
• Swollen and tender breasts
• Increased urination
• Strange taste in your mouth, new food cravings, or a loss of interest in foods you once enjoyed
• Increased sensitivity to smell

When to Take a Pregnancy Test

If you have reason to believe you may be pregnant and experience implantation bleeding, you can take a pregnancy test from the first day of your missed period. Some test give results six days before your period is expected to start.

However, the results may not be as accurate because pregnancy hormone levels may not be high enough in the body for the test to detect. According to Planned Parenthood, the best time to take a pregnancy test is three weeks after having unprotected sex.5

Self-Care for Implantation Bleeding

There is no treatment required for implantation bleeding, as it is a typical sign of pregnancy. When you are spotting, you can use panty liners to ensure that you don’t bleed onto your underwear.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

Implantation bleeding is considered normal, but if it lasts longer than three days or is heavier than expected and you suspect it isn’t your period, it’s essential to contact a healthcare provider.

They will conduct the proper tests to check for other problems that can cause vaginal bleeding that’s not a period or caused by pregnancy.2

Summary

Implantation bleeding is a common occurrence when an egg becomes fertilized by a sperm. It does not mimic a period, as it is lighter and closer to pink or brown in color, as opposed to the heavy and red flow that occurs during menstruation. This type of bleeding tends to appear spotty and will last from a few hours to a few days. Periods tend to last a minimum of three days up to a maximum of a week, give or take.

If you experience any bleeding and suspect you may be pregnant, it's essential to get a test or see your healthcare provider. Light bleeding from implantation is not a sign to worry, but it can indicate that you're pregnant, and the sooner you know, the better able you are to start pregnancy planning.