Are you experiencing cramps that aren’t similar to the usual menstrual ones? There’s a good chance that you might be experiencing implantation cramps.
These cramps may be an early sign of pregnancy and could prove to be one of those ambiguous signs. Understanding the causes and how to tell the differences between implantation cramps and menstrual cramps will help people to recognize them.
In this post, we will discuss what implantation cramps are? How long does implantation cramping last? What you can do for the pain and how to tell the difference between menstrual and implantation cramps. Read on to know more.
What Are Implantation Cramps?
Implantation cramps are one of the very first signs of pregnancy. These cramps are specifically associated with the process of a fertilized egg attaching itself to the uterine lining.
When conception is successful, i.e. when sperm has fertilized an egg inside the Fallopian tubes the zygote moves into the uterus and changes into a morula, which then becomes a blastocyst. In this form, the fertilized egg embeds itself into the uterine lining. This process is known as implantation.
As with all pregnancy symptoms, not all women will experience implantation cramps and bleeding. Some may experience cramping, while others may feel nothing at all during the implantation process.
Why Does Implantation Cramping Occur?
In other, for the blastocyst to receive nutrients, it needs to attach itself to the uterus wall. This process of an attachment may cause implantation cramping, which can cause the activation of prostaglandins. These hormones are usually associated with pain and inflammation. Hence, they trigger the muscles of the uterus to contract, causing cramping.
How Long Does Implantation Cramping Last?
Every woman’s body is different and can often experience different things with each pregnancy. Normally, implantation cramps don’t last long.
Some women may feel a slight twinge which may last just a few minutes, other times it comes and goes, and sometimes it’s relatively constant for a few days.
Although in some rare cases some women may experience cramps for around 12-15 days while other women may have no cramps, even after having successfully conceived.
Therefore, there’s no precise answer to this, since there is a strong possibility of multiple factors governing the process and its effects.
When Does Implantation Pain Usually Start?
All women do not experience implantation cramping. Implantation bleeding or cramping will typically start between 10 and 14 days after conception.
When the blastocyst implants, the placenta begins to form and the level of the hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin hormone) begins to rise.
Where Can I Feel These Implantation Cramps?
This sensation may vary from woman to woman, for some, they are more centralized, similar to period cramps; others may feel cramps in a different place, like on one side or in their lower abdomen.
Menstrual Vs Implantation Cramps
Sometimes this can be difficult to differentiate because implantation cramps can happen around the same time as the menstrual cycle.
The best way to tell the difference is to wait and see if your period comes on. Your period arriving is a clear sign that pregnancy has not occurred and that the discomfort you felt was probably from menstrual cramps.
However, you can also differentiate them if you pay close attention to your symptoms such as…
Duration Of Your Cramps
Implantation cramping happens in small spasms, and at times, it is paired with light blood spots. But this bleeding is a far cry from the usual menstrual bleeding.
Cramp Intensity Along With Accompanied Implanted Bleeding
When a woman has implantation cramps, the bleeding along with it is not intense, and the spots are brown and pinkish.
Menstrual cramps, on the other hand, are experienced during a period, which occurs usually once in 28 days or so. Menstrual bleeding may intensify for most women over time and the blood will be a vivid shade of red.
Cramping And Other Possible Symptoms
Implantation cramping or bleeding can be an early sign of pregnancy. One can mistake period cramping or a light period for symptoms of implantation. Because of the similarity of symptoms between menstruation and implantation, it helps to know the other early signs of pregnancy which includes…
- Frequent urination
- Swollen, tender, heavier, or fuller breasts
- Extreme tiredness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Food aversions or cravings
- Headaches
- Constipation
- Mood swings
- Feeling tearful
- Dizziness or faintness
- Raised body temperature
- Missed period
Read Also: How To Reduce Pregnancy Swelling
Interesting Tips On How To Ease Implantation Cramps
Take A Warm Bath
This will help you relax and ease the tension. Warm water relaxes the ligaments and muscles of the uterus, relieving your cramps.
Hot Compress
As an alternative to a warm bath, place a hot compress on the problem region on your body.
Massage
Have your partner give you a nice back massage or find a masseuse in your area. This can help ease implantation cramps.
Try Relaxing
Stress can cause even more tension and discomfort when your body doesn’t get enough rest. Always relax, sit back, and prop your feet up to help the pain pass. You can even engage in some relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of fluids will go a long way in easing and preventing any types of cramps.
Change Positions
The switching of positions can help ease the pain.
Try Yoga
This will put you in a relaxed state of mind, get your blood flowing, and alleviate your pain.
When To See Your Doctor
Remember, not every woman experiences implantation cramping. In many cases, in many cramping during early pregnancy is usually normal, while in some cases, it can indicate a serious problem.
If you experience severe or persistent cramps or cramps with heavy bleeding, consult your doctor to schedule lab testing because these are possible signs of an ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, placental abruption, or an ovarian cyst.
Conclusion
I hope this article has helped enlighten you more about implantation cramps and as well have answered your question “How long does implantation cramping last?”
Always know that Implantation cramps are a healthy part of pregnancy and can often be one of the first signs. You also track your period, ovulation, and sexy time with an app to help you know if you’re more or less likely to be pregnant.
Also, do not forget to contact your health provider if you experience any unusual severe or persistent cramps.
4