Pregnancy implantation signs and symptoms
Timeline
The first difference is in the timing of the symptoms. Implantation happens any time between about 5-10 days after you ovulate, while PMS usually sets in closer to two weeks after. So if symptoms start and it feels a little early to you for it to be menstruation, it might be a successful implantation.
Cramping
Mild cramping can be a sign of successful implantation, as the fertilized egg attaches to your uterine lining. These cramps don’t happen in every case, and they’re not, on their own, enough to say for sure that implantation has happened. When they do occur though, they’re different from menstrual cramps in that they only last for short periods of time, rather than continuously like menstrual cramps. The pain they cause also tends to be much more mild than that from menstrual cramps.
Spotting
Implantation bleeding produces a lot less blood than a menstrual period. Instead, it’s more like spotting, and is more likely to range from pinkish to brownish, instead of red like menstrual blood. If you have heavier-than-period bleeding, especially with extreme cramping, you should contact your healthcare provider.
Soreness
Both implantation and PMS can cause soreness in your breasts. The two types of soreness won’t necessarily feel that different from one another, but soreness from a period will usually go away after a few days, whereas soreness from implantation might stick around through your pregnancy. In fact, the elevated presence of progesterone and other hormones during pregnancy can cause several different changes in your breasts. Another change that you might notice around the time of implantation is a darkening of your areolas.
Other signs
There are other signs of implantation that don’t correspond to menstrual symptoms, like nausea and morning sickness, increased urination, and, of course, missing your period. Since everyone’s body is different though, you may not notice some or all of these signs. At-home pregnancy tests can provide a bit more confirmation, though they won’t reach their full accuracy until around your expected period date.
Sources
- “Is It Implantation Bleeding — Or Just My Period?” WhattoExpect. What to Expect, Apr 12 2016. Web.
- Margaret Scott. “Signs Of Successful Implantation: Why It Is Important To Stay Optimistic.” ImplantationSpotting. All About Implantation Bleeding, 2014. Web.
