What does pregnancy spotting look like

You can take a home pregnancy test during implantation bleeding. Keep in mind that the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin or hCG that pregnancy tests detect only starts being produced in your body the moment the fertilized egg is implanted in the uterus — which is the trigger for implantation bleeding.

The earlier you take the test, the less hCG there is to detect, meaning that the test may not yet be accurate. If you get a positive test result, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to confirm your pregnancy. And you can get an estimate of when to expect your baby by using our handy tool to calculate your due date. Although light bleeding in early pregnancy can be totally normal, there are some reasons for bleeding in early pregnancy that need to be addressed immediately.

These can include infection, miscarriage, or ectopic pregnancy. Implantation bleeding is not a cause for concern. The bleeding is usually light and does not last very long. However, other symptoms may indicate other issues, such as an ectopic pregnancy or pregnancy loss.

These symptoms include:. Implantation bleeding is usually shorter and less heavy than menstrual bleeding. If a person is unsure which one they are experiencing, they can wait a few days and then take a pregnancy test.

If at any time during a confirmed pregnancy, the bleeding becomes heavy or accompanies cramping pain, medical attention is necessary. While an impending pregnancy can be associated with feelings of excitement or anxiety, it is often accompanied by harmless bleeding that can cause….

Possible causes of first trimester bleeding include implantation bleeding, subchorionic hemorrhages, and early pregnancy loss. Learn more here. In most cases, women find out they are pregnant when they miss a period. Some women may notice pregnancy symptoms even before this time, though they….

Nausea, a missed period, and breast changes are all common early signs of pregnancy. Learn about these and other signs that a pregnancy test is a good…. It can sometimes be difficult for someone to determine whether they are having menstrual pain or implantation cramps. Not everyone will get…. What does implantation bleeding look like?

What to expect. Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. Appearance Other symptoms Vs. Heavy bleeding in the second trimester may be a sign of a medical emergency, such as:. Light bleeding or spotting during late pregnancy may occur after sex or a cervical exam.

If you experience heavy vaginal bleeding during late pregnancy, seek emergency medical care. It could be caused by a:. If you experience a lighter blood flow or light spotting, you should still call your doctor right away. Depending on your other symptoms, you may need an evaluation.

About 10 percent of all clinically recognized pregnancies end in miscarriage. You may also experience pain or cramping in your lower back or abdomen, or fluid or tissue passing from your vagina along with the following symptoms:.

Further along in the first trimester, or if there are com plications , you may require a procedure called dilation and curettage — commonly called a D and C — to stop bleeding and prevent infection. If the fetus is no longer alive, you may be given medication to help you deliver the fetus and placenta vaginally or your doctor may decide to surgically remove the fetus using a procedure called dilation and evacuation , also known as D and E. A second or third-trimester miscarriage requires physical and emotional care.

If you work outside your home, ask your doctor when you can return to your office or work site. If you think you need more time for emotional recovery, let your doctor know. They may be able to provide documentation to your employer to allow you to take additional time off. If you plan to get pregnant again, ask your doctor how long they recommend you wait before trying to conceive. Experiencing a miscarriage can be devastating.

Know that a miscarriage is not your fault. Lean on family and friends for support during this difficult time. You can also find a grief counselor in your area. Allow yourself as much time as you need to grieve. Many people go on to have healthy pregnancies following a miscarriage.

They may also take an abdominal or vaginal ultrasound to confirm a healthy fetus developing appropriately and to check for a heartbeat. During early pregnancy, you may also need an hCG blood test. This tests for a standard pregnancy and can help diagnose an ectopic pregnancy or rule out a potential miscarriage. Your blood type will also be confirmed. Many people experience implantation bleeding during early pregnancy.

Also let your doctor know if you experience other symptoms along with spotting, such as cramps, backache, or a fever. Remember that many people who experience spotting go on to have healthy pregnancies. Your doctor can help evaluate your symptoms.