What Signs Indicate Implantation Has Occurred?

Timing and Duration of Implantation

When does implantation occur? The amount of time it takes varies and typically depends on how long it takes the embryo to reach the uterus. Generally, implantation occurs within two weeks after conception, typically between 6 and 12 days.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Implantation

The signs of implantation are the indicators of early pregnancy. Implantation symptoms include:

Implantation Bleeding

Some women will experience very light bleeding or spotting, known as implantation bleeding. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), up to 25% of women experience bleeding during pregnancy or spotting in the first trimester. Implantation could be the cause of early first-trimester bleeding.

Very often, pregnant women confuse this type of bleeding for a menstrual period because of its timing. Differences in color and flow can help to differentiate between the two. If there is any question about the cause or type of bleeding, please contact your provider.

Implantation Dip

Tracking basal body temperature (BBT) on a fertility calendar helps prospective parents identify the times of the month they are most fertile. A brief, one-day drop in BBT by several tenths of a degree can occur as a result of successful implantation. This is known as the implantation dip. However, BBT alone cannot be used to reliably signify implantation.

Cramps, Tender Breasts, and Back Pain

Hormones rapidly shift in early pregnancy following implantation, which is why at-home pregnancy tests won’t reveal a positive result until after implantation.

The sudden surge of hormones can cause cramping in some women. In addition to implantation cramping, women can also experience tender breasts and lower back pain.

Vaginal Discharge

Those who monitor their body’s cervical mucus may notice changes around the time of implantation. During ovulation, the mucus produced in the cervix will appear clear with a stretchy and slippery consistency. After implantation, mucus can become a thicker texture and be white in appearance.

Nausea

Morning sickness is one of the most well-known symptoms of pregnancy. The body’s increased levels of progesterone following implantation can contribute to feelings of nausea. Furthermore, rising levels of Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and a more sensitive sense of smell can make the nausea worse.

Mood Swings

A person can also experience sudden changes in mood following implantation. Estrogen and progesterone levels, as well as hCG levels, increase very rapidly after successful implantation, which causes an individual to experience rapid mood swings.

Other signs of implantation can include:

• Headaches
• Bloating
• Constipation
• Food cravings and aversions
• Fatigue
• Heartburn
• Missed period