Implantation bleeding is light spotting or mild bleeding that can happen when a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus, usually about 6–12 days after ovulation.
Common features:
Light pink, brown, or rust-colored spotting
Much lighter than a period
Usually lasts a few hours to 2 days
May come with mild cramping
Differences from a regular period:
Flow is usually very light (spotting rather than bleeding)
Doesn’t typically get heavier
Often shorter in duration
Less clotting
Not everyone experiences implantation bleeding, and spotting can also happen for other reasons (period starting, hormonal changes, birth control, infection, etc.).
If you think you might be pregnant:
A home pregnancy test is usually most accurate after a missed period
Testing too early may give a false negative
Seek medical care urgently if bleeding is:
Heavy like a period or worse
Associated with severe pain, dizziness, or fainting
Occurring during a known pregnancy
If you want, I can also help you:
Tell whether your symptoms sound more like implantation bleeding or a period
Explain timing based on ovulation/sex dates
Show a comparison chart between implantation bleeding and menstruation
