The two weeks between ovulation and your period can be a daunting time if you are trying to get pregnant. You may look for subtle signs that could indicate a pregnancy because it’s too early to take a pregnancy test. 

One sign many women often look for is light bleeding from implantation. But what exactly does that look like? 

What It Is     Signs     When to take a pregnancy test

What is implantation bleeding?

Implantation bleeding is a small amount of spotting or blood that occurs when a fertilized egg has attached to the uterine lining. 

Since the egg has to bind to the uterine lining, it slightly damages the tissue, resulting in blood being released.  

Implantation bleeding often happens 10 to 14 days after conception.

Signs of implantation bleeding

Implantation bleeding and an early period are often difficult to distinguish, but there are a few cues you can look for.

Color

Implantation bleeding is typically a pink-brown color and a period is light to medium red.

Flow

Implantation bleeding is very light and lasts for a short time. A period starts as a light flow and gradually gets heavier. A period usually lasts 3-7 days. 

>>RELATED: Demystifying Menstruation: What Is Your Period Trying to Tell You?

Cramps

Implantation bleeding can be accompanied by a light cramp for a short time. However, period cramps are often more intense and last longer.

Clots

Implantation bleeding does not produce blood clots. However, periods can release a few clots in the beginning. 

Every woman’s body is different, and so is her period. You know your monthly symptoms best, so pay attention to anything that feels or looks different.

When should I take a pregnancy test?

Looking for pregnancy signs is one way to indicate that you are pregnant. However, the best thing to do is take a pregnancy test to confirm your suspicions. 

Pregnancy tests measure how much human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is in your blood. Since the placenta makes this hormone, detecting it in your blood is a sure sign that you are pregnant. 

Since your body needs time to produce enough hCG hormone, it’s best to take a pregnancy test the day after your expected period. 

Takeaways

Implantation bleeding is one sign that can indicate that you are pregnant, but it’s best to use a pregnancy test to confirm conception. 

Contact your doctor if you experience bleeding after a positive pregnancy test because it could signify ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, or other early miscarriages.