The differences at a glance
| Sign | Implantation bleeding | Period |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | About 10 to 14 days after ovulation, often before your period is due | Around when your period is due |
| Colour | Pink, brown or dark brown | Often starts brown or pink, then turns red |
| Amount | Very light. A liner is usually enough | Builds up, and usually needs a pad, tampon or cup |
| How long | A few hours to about 2 days | Usually 2 to 7 days |
| Clots | No | Possible |
| Cramps | None, or very mild | Often stronger, especially on the first days |
Why this tool won’t say “you’re pregnant”
Light spotting has many possible causes, including hormonal changes, contraception, and the start of a normal period. Implantation bleeding also overlaps with early pregnancy symptoms like sore breasts, bloating, nausea and tiredness, which are common before a period as well. Only a test can tell you.
When to get medical help
Call a clinician if bleeding is heavy or has clots, or if you have cramping or pain. If you could be pregnant and have sudden, intense tummy pain, feel very dizzy or faint, call emergency services, as these can be signs of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy.
What implantation bleeding is
Implantation bleeding is very light bleeding, or spotting, that can happen as a fertilised egg attaches to the lining of the womb. Cleveland Clinic describes it as a normal part of pregnancy and says it affects about 1 in 4 pregnant women. Any cramping should be mild, and much lighter than period cramps.
Implantation bleeding vs period: the most useful clues
- How it changes. A period usually builds into a steady flow. Implantation bleeding stays light, and shouldn’t soak through a pad.
- How long it lasts. Implantation bleeding should stop on its own after about two days. Periods usually last between 2 and 7 days.
- The colour. Pink or brown blood fits implantation, but it’s also common on the lighter days of a period. Bright or dark red blood points away from implantation.
- The timing. It usually happens about 10 to 14 days after ovulation, which is why it can overlap with when your period is due.
No single clue is enough on its own. The tool looks at all of your answers together and tells you plainly when they don’t point clearly either way.
When to take a pregnancy test
A home test taken too early can be negative because your body hasn’t yet produced enough of the pregnancy hormone hCG. For the most accurate result, wait until the spotting has stopped and your period is clearly late. A doctor can arrange a blood test if you need to know sooner.
If your first test is negative and your period still doesn’t come, wait a few days and test again. Speak to a GP if the second test is also negative and you still have no period.
Not sure what else it could be? Our guide to spotting before a period covers other common causes, and the late period checker shows how late you are.