Understanding the Differences: Implantation Bleeding vs Miscarriage
Pregnancies can be challenging for many women, and some may have the word miscarriage in their minds.
As per the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, bleeding in the first trimester happens in 15% to 25% of pregnant women.
Many of them get confused when they see the light spotting if it is implantation bleeding or they are at risk of miscarriage.
It is crucial to understand the basic differences between implantation bleeding vs miscarriage.
In this article, we will learn how implantation bleeding differs from miscarriages on the basis of its symptoms and severity.
A quick review: Implantation bleeding vs miscarriage
| Implantation Bleeding | Miscarriage Bleeding | |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Typically occurs around 6-12 days after ovulation | Can occur at any time during the first 20 weeks of gestation |
| Bleeding characteristics | Light spotting or light bleeding | Can range from light to heavy bleeding |
| Duration | Usually lasts a few hours to a few days | It can last several days to weeks |
| Color of blood | Pink or light brown | Can be pink, red, or dark brown |
| Clotting | Rarely involves passing clots | May pass clots or tissue |
| Pain or cramping | Typically no or minimal abdominal pain | May experience abdominal cramps or pain |
| Pregnancy viability | Indicates a potentially viable pregnancy | Indicates a loss of pregnancy |
What is implantation bleeding
Implantation bleeding occurs during the early stages of your pregnancy.
It may appear as blood spotting on your underwear or toilet paper a few days before or after you test positive for pregnancy.
Implantation means that the fertilized egg is implanted on the uterus wall.
It occurs after one or two weeks of fertilization of the egg.
Implantation bleeding doesn’t affect the fetus’s chances to survive and develop outside the uterus.
Similarly, if you do not have Implantation bleeding, it is still OK; you need not worry.
It is essential to know that it is a sign of pregnancy, not your period.
A few spots of blood or light flow should not be considered as your period or if you are not pregnant.
You could be pregnant; having a pregnancy test as soon as possible is better.
What is miscarriage
Miscarriage is a pregnancy loss before the 20th week and is also known as spontaneous abortion.
It is the natural death of an embryo or fetus in the womb before it is old enough to live on its own.
As per the National Center of Biotechnology Information, about 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriages.
If you see spotting after a positive pregnancy test, you might worry it is the start of an early miscarriage.
Spotting during early pregnancy is common, and it doesn’t always mean you are miscarrying.
According to another study, about 50% of people having vaginal bleeding during the first three months continue their pregnancy.
You may feel symptoms like cramps, pain in the lower abdomen, and discharge of fluid or tissues.
Difference between implantation bleeding and miscarriage
Bleeding from a miscarriage which is about to happen, may start as spotting and then turn into heavier bleeding.
Miscarriage refers to the pregnancy loss before the 20th week of pregnancy.
The flow can be excessive, with visible clots and dark red color that may resemble the heavy menstrual period.
On the other hand, implantation bleeding may look light pink or dark brown in color without clots.
It occurs around 6 to 12 days after the ovulation period.
Implantation bleeding is a lighter flow that may occur for only a few hours or a day.
Other symptoms which can be signs that you are experiencing a miscarriage rather than implantation bleeding are cramps and the passing of tissues through the vagina.
Can implantation bleeding increases the chances of miscarriage
There is no such proof that implantation bleeding can cause miscarriage.
Implantation bleeding is thought to be expected and familiar during early pregnancy.
The causes of a miscarriage are considered to be a genetic abnormality or a mature fetus.
As per a study published by the National Library of Biotechnology Information, 50% of trimester miscarriages happen due to chromosomal abnormalities.
Some of the common risk factors for miscarriage are as follows:
- Being overweight
- Thyroid imbalance
- Older maternal age
- Diabetes
- Uterine abnormalities
- Hormonal problems
Takeaway
Implantation bleeding is a normal occurrence during early pregnancy for a short period having light spotting.
Miscarriage, on the other hand, involves heavy bleeding with clots or tissues and abdominal cramps.
Consulting a doctor is essential to know the exact cause of bleeding.
While implantation bleeding doesn’t lead to miscarriage, seeking medical advice ensures the well-being of the mother and the child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can implantation bleeding mean miscarriage?
No, implantation bleeding itself does not mean a miscarriage. Implantation bleeding is a normal occurrence during early pregnancy and is not associated with the risk of miscarriage.
What does a miscarriage of blood look like?
The appearance of blood during a miscarriage can vary. It may range from pink or light red to dark brown. The bleeding can be light or heavy and contain clots or tissue.
How do you know if it’s a miscarriage or implantation bleeding?
Miscarriage is often associated with heavier bleeding, abdominal cramps, and the passing of clots or tissue. A medical evaluation is necessary to diagnose and determine the cause accurately. However, implantation bleeding is light bleeding with minimal pain.
What is the chance of miscarriage based on implantation?
The chances of miscarriage are not associated with implantation. Miscarriages are generally influenced by maternal age, genetic abnormalities, and health conditions.
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