How to determine whether it is implantation bleeding or menstruation

The distinction between implantation bleeding and menstruation is mainly based on bleeding time, bleeding volume, color and texture, accompanying symptoms, and duration. Implantation bleeding usually occurs 6-12 days after conception, with a small amount appearing light pink or brown and no abdominal pain; Menstrual bleeding follows a regular cycle, with a large amount appearing bright red and accompanied by dysmenorrhea.

1. Bleeding time:

Implantation bleeding occurs during the implantation of the fertilized egg, 6-12 days after ovulation, usually earlier than the expected menstrual period. Menstrual bleeding follows the original cycle pattern, and the menstrual cycle for women of childbearing age is generally 21-35 days. If the bleeding time is significantly earlier than expected and there has been no protective sexual activity recently, implantation bleeding should be given priority consideration.

2. Bleeding volume:

Implantation bleeding is usually only manifested as spotting or a small amount of blood streaks, which can be treated with a pad and lasts for 1-2 days. Menstrual bleeding is significant, and on the first day, it may be necessary to change sanitary pads every 2-3 hours for 3-7 days. If the amount of bleeding is less than 20% of the previous menstrual flow, there is a higher possibility of implantation bleeding.

3. Color and texture:

Implantation bleeding is often light pink, light brown, or rust colored, with a thin texture and no blood clots. Menstrual blood appears bright red in the early stages and turns dark red in the later stages, often mixed with blood clots formed by fragments of the endometrium. Observing blood color is an important distinguishing point, and bright red bleeding can basically rule out implantation bleeding.

4. Accompanying symptoms:

Implantation bleeding may be accompanied by mild breast tenderness or fatigue, but without severe abdominal pain. Premenstrual syndrome often occurs before menstruation, such as lower back pain, lower abdominal bloating, headache, etc. When bleeding occurs, it is often accompanied by uterine contraction pain. If severe spasmodic pain occurs during bleeding, it usually indicates the onset of menstruation.

5. Duration:

The duration of implantation bleeding does not exceed 72 hours, and most of them stop spontaneously within 24-48 hours. Normal menstrual bleeding lasts for 3-7 days and gradually decreases. If there is no sign of weakening after 3 days of bleeding, it can be basically judged as menstruation.

It is recommended to record basal body temperature to assist in judgment. After implantation, the body temperature will continue to rise by 0.3-0.5 ℃. Pregnant women can use early pregnancy test strips or seek medical attention to test their blood HCG concentration 7 days after the bleeding stops. Avoid strenuous exercise in daily life, keep the external genitalia clean, and choose breathable cotton underwear. Pay attention to supplementing iron and vitamin C in diet, such as spinach, beef, oranges, etc., and reduce intake of raw, cold, and spicy foods. Emotional tension may affect judgment, it is recommended to relax and observe physical changes.