What’s the difference between implantation and menstruation cramps? — Gynecologist for prenatal care in Costa del Sol
12/02/2023A possible early pregnancy sign is cramping during implantation. Knowing the causes and differences between implantation and period cramps can help people identify them. Learn the difference in this article and when to book an appointment with a gynaecologist for prenatal care.
What exactly are the cramps associated with the implantation process?
During the process by which a fertilised egg attaches itself to the lining of the uterus, a type of pain known as "implantation cramping" may occasionally be felt. The process that we are referring to here is called implantation. When something like this takes place, cramping is a common side effect, but it is not always painful.
Anyone who is going through the cramping associated with implantation should not take any anti-inflammatory medications. According to a study that was conducted in 2003, taking anti-inflammatory medications close to the time of conception may increase the risk of having a miscarriage.
Implantation cramps vs. period cramps
Period or menstrual cramps are not the same as implantation cramps.
As long as there is no pregnancy, menstrual cramps happen during a period, when the uterus contracts to expel its lining. This contraction is caused by prostaglandins, which are the chemical messengers that cause the contraction of the uterine muscles. Prostaglandins have been linked to both inflammation and painful sensations.
Not every pregnant woman experiences implantation bleeding and cramps.
A 2010 study found that 25% of people experienced bleeding in the first trimester. Only 8% of those had significant bleeding.
28 % of people who experienced spotting and light bleeding also experienced pain. In addition to having heavy bleeding, 54% of people also had pain.
Identifying implantation cramps
Cramping doesn't happen to everyone during implantation. And for those who experience them, the cramps could be light or strong.
The feeling has been characterised as:
- pulling
- pricking
- tingling feeling
This may help distinguish it from a cramp associated with menstruation.
Since it is unusual for a woman to experience severe cramping pain during implantation, anyone who experiences painful cramping in the time between periods should be evaluated by a medical professional.
When a pregnancy does occur, the process of implanting the fertilised egg usually takes place between 6 and 12 days after ovulation. This is roughly the same time that one would normally anticipate the beginning of their period.
If an egg has been fertilised, the lining of the uterus will be prepared to receive and protect the egg in the event that pregnancy occurs.
Pain associated with implantation may be accompanied by spotting or very light bleeding. This type of bleeding is called implantation bleeding, and it is typically lighter than a period.
Additional early indications of pregnancy
It is very easy to confuse the cramping of your period with the symptoms of implantation, especially if your period is light.
It is important to be aware of the other early signs of pregnancy due to the fact that the symptoms associated with menstruation and implantation are very similar.
Additional early indications of pregnancy include the following:
- tender, swollen, heavier, or fuller breasts
- constipation
- cravings
- extreme tiredness
- feeling sick or vomiting
- food aversions or cravings
- headaches
- raised body temperature
- mood swings
- dizziness or faintness
Gynecologist for prenatal care in Costa del Sol
A person who has any reason to suspect that they might be pregnant should get a pregnancy test done at home as soon as possible.
If the pregnancy test turns out to be positive, the next thing to do is to schedule a visit with a medical professional. The results of the at-home test can be verified by the attending physician. To ensure a healthy pregnancy, our gynaecologist for prenatal care in Costa del Sol recommends getting an appointment as soon as possible.