Period FAQs

can you get your period while pregnant

by Dr. Erika Treutel I Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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After a girl is pregnant, she no longer gets her period. But girls who are pregnant can have other bleeding that might look like a period. For example, there can be a small amount of bleeding when a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. Doctors call this implantation bleeding.

Is it normal to have a full period while pregnant?

The short answer is no. Despite all of the claims out there, it isn’t possible to have a period while you’re pregnant. Rather, you might experience “spotting” during early pregnancy, which is usually light pink or dark brown in color.

Can You ovulate without having a period?

Yes, women can ovulate without having a period. The truth is that you don't need to have a period to ovulate and conceive. Ovulation is the period when your ovary releases a mature egg, which then moves down to the fallopian tube and becomes available for fertilization. The lining of the uterus becomes thick while waiting for a fertilized egg.

How to tell the difference between spotting and a period?

period differences

  • Spotting refers to very light vaginal bleeding or brown discharge that occurs mid-cycle between menstrual periods.
  • Menstrual periods are the monthly bleeding that occur in women of reproductive age.
  • Spotting may be due to a number of causes. ...
  • Implantation bleeding in early pregnancy is a common cause of spotting and is not abnormal.

Can I get pregnant just after my period has finished?

The chances of getting pregnant just after the period depend on how short the menstrual cycle is and how long the period lasts. If periods are long, women may only have a few days left after the period ends before fertile days begin. If the menstrual cycle is short, for example, 22 days, then women could ovulate just days after the period.

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Can you bleed like a period in early pregnancy?

Spotting or bleeding may occur shortly after conception, this is known as an implantation bleed. It is caused by the fertilised egg embedding itself in the lining of the womb. This bleeding is often mistaken for a period, and it may occur around the time your period is due.

Is it my period or am I pregnant?

When you have your period, the flow is noticeably heavier and can last up to a week. Pregnancy: For some, one of the first signs of pregnancy is light vaginal bleeding or spotting that's usually pink or dark brown. This typically happens 10 to 14 days after conception and is usually not enough to fill pads or tampons.

Can you be 2 weeks pregnant and have a period?

The short answer is no. Despite all of the claims out there, it isn't possible to have a period while you're pregnant. Rather, you might experience “spotting” during early pregnancy, which is usually light pink or dark brown in color.

Why do I feel like my period is coming when pregnant?

Bleeding during early pregnancy is not an unusual sign of pregnancy experienced by many women and often mistaken for a period. It is known as implantation bleeding and is completely normal and does not need any medical treatment.

What is the difference between period cramps and early pregnancy cramps?

Cramping. Cramping is common in both PMS and early pregnancy. Early pregnancy cramps are similar to menstrual cramps, but they can occur lower down in the stomach. These cramps may persist for weeks or months during pregnancy, as the embryo implants and the uterus stretches.

Can early pregnancy feel just like PMS?

Bloating, headaches, and back pain can also be symptoms of—you guessed it—both early pregnancy and PMS. It can be confusing (not to mention frustrating) when you're experiencing so many similar symptoms during your two-week wait.

What are signs your period is coming?

Some of the most common PMS symptoms are:Cramps (pain in your lower belly or lower back)Bloating (when your belly feels puffy)Breakouts (getting pimples)Sore breasts.Feeling tired.Mood swings (when your emotions change quickly or you feel sad, angry, or anxious)

Can you get a false period?

Sometimes you might notice spots of vaginal bleeding when you're not on your period. Most of the time, this spotting is nothing to worry about. It can be triggered by a variety of factors, from pregnancy to a switch in birth control methods.

What happens when you don't get pregnant?

If you don't get pregnant that month, you shed this tissue and blood – that's your menstrual period.

What does it mean when you bleed while pregnant?

Bleeding can also be a sign of something seriously wrong, such as an infection, placental problems, miscarriage, or an ectopic pregnancy , which can be life-threatening. (See our article on vaginal bleeding in pregnancy for a complete rundown of possible causes.)

Why does implantation bleeding happen?

This spotting has been called " implantation bleeding " because of the idea that it might be caused by the fertilized egg burrowing into the blood-rich lining of the uterus. But no one knows what really causes it.

Do you shed your period when you have a baby?

But once an egg embeds in the uterine lining, hormones tell the blood-rich tissue to stay intact to support the growing baby. And you won't shed it and start having your period again until your pregnancy is over.

Can you have a period while pregnant?

No. You can't have your menstrual period while you're pregnant. Some women do have vaginal bleeding during pregnancy. Some even report intermittent bleeding that seems like a regular period to them. But vaginal bleeding during pregnancy is not the same thing as menstruation.

When a woman is pregnant, does she continue to ovulate?

When a woman is pregnant, she does not continue to ovulate and will not have a period. Menstruation only occurs when a person is not pregnant.

When does the menstrual cycle end?

The menstrual cycle occurs to facilitate pregnancy. The cycle begins on the first day of a person’s period and ends on the first day of the following period. Ovulation, when the ovary releases an egg, occurs midway through the cycle. An egg is only viable for about 12–24 hours after a woman ovulates. If sperm cells are present and able ...

What is the term for a hematoma that occurs between the uterine wall and the placent?

subchorionic hemorrhage, also called subchorionic hematoma, when bleeding occurs between the uterine wall and the placenta

What is ectopic pregnancy?

ectopic pregnancy, which is a medical emergency. an infection. miscarriage, or pregnancy loss. subchorionic hemorrhage, also called subchorionic hematoma, when bleeding occurs between the uterine wall and the placenta.

What is the term for a condition in which the placenta begins to separate from the uterus before?

Placental abruption: This is a condition in which the placenta begins to separate from the uterus before the baby is born. It is also a medical emergency.

What happens if there is no fertilization?

If there is no fertilization, menstruation will occur, and the body will shed the uterine lining so that it can begin making a new one for the next cycle.

Should women seek emergency medical attention for bleeding during pregnancy?

Women should seek emergency medical attention for bleeding during pregnancy if they have additional symptoms that include:

Why does my period bleed so much?

Other causes: Heavier bleeding that more closely resembles a period during the first trimester of pregnancy can indicate something more serious , including: Ectopic pregnancy. Infection. Miscarriage. Molar pregnancy.

When does bleeding occur during pregnancy?

Bleeding tends to occur more often during the first trimester of pregnancy than the second or third.

What are the symptoms of a uterine contraction?

Other symptoms include a backache, abdominal cramping, changes in vaginal discharge, and a sensation of vaginal pressure.

How long does implantation bleeding last?

This bleeding is lighter than a normal period, however, and only lasts for a couple of days. It occurs due to the implantation of the fertilized egg into the uterine lining.

Why is my vagina bleeding red?

Pelvic pain and vaginal bleeding in the early stages of pregnancy may indicate an ectopic pregnancy . If you suspect this, see your health care provider as soon as possible.

What does it mean when you have a first trimester bleed?

First trimester bleeding that occurs alongside other symptoms (like dizziness or pain) may indicate a more serious issue , such as ectopic pregnancy, infection, miscarriage, molar pregnancy, subchorionic hemorrhage, or cervical changes . If you are concerned and suspect an underlying cause for the bleeding, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention — many of these conditions are medical emergencies.

What is the term for a miscarriage that is a molar pregnancy?

Miscarriage. Molar pregnancy. Subchorionic hemorrhage, also known as subchorionic hematoma (bleeding between the placenta and the wall of the uterus) Gestational trophoblast disease (GTD), a rare group of tumors that grow from the cells that normally develop into the placenta.

What causes a period when you are pregnant?

Conception that occurs close to menstruation or low progesterone levels may cause what looks like a period while pregnant. Conception may not occur until mere days before your period is due if you have a short cycle or don’t ovulate mid-cycle. For example, let’s say you’re regularly maintaining a 26-day cycle.

What is the most common type of bleeding mistaken for a period while pregnant?

This type of bleeding is often referred to as “break through bleeding,” and is the most common type of bleeding mistaken for a period while pregnant. Break through bleed ing is usually seen during the first month of pregnancy but may continue in the first trimester if hormone levels stay low. It’s important to note that any bleeding following ...

How long does it take for a progesterone egg to implant?

Chances are you’ll ovulate around day 13. Even if fertilization occurred that day, it would still take six to twelve days for the fertilized egg to reach and implant in your uterine lining. By this timeline, your body wouldn’t know to continue producing progesterone, ...

How long does it take for a woman to produce progesterone?

By this timeline, your body wouldn’t know to continue producing progesterone, the hormone that maintains your uterine lining, until somewhere between day 20 to 25 of your cycle. That could leave as little as one day between implantation and projected menstruation.

Can implantation bleeding be mistaken for a period?

Implantation bleeding could be mistaken for a light period . Many women also mistake implantation bleeding for a period while pregnant. Following the same example above, if you often have a light period, and had spotting on day 23, you might mistake that spotting as your period a day or two early.

Is it safe to be pregnant if you bleed?

In short, bleeding doesn’t guarantee that you aren’t pregnant , but then it’s usually a pretty good indication. Pay attention to your body, trust your instinct, and when in doubt, act pregnant until you’re sure you aren’t.

Can you have multiple bleeds during your period?

Multiple timely bleeds like a period, whether irregular/light for you or not, are very unlikely to be pregnancy bleeding. As break through bleeding can be indicative of low progesterone, it’s a good idea to let your health care provider know about it. In fact, any bleeding during pregnancy should be evaluated.

What happens if a baby is implanted outside the uterus?

If it occurs within the Fallopian tube, it may cause rupture and bleeding into the abdomen with very severe pain.

Can i be pregnant and still have regular period?

You cannot have regular period while pregnant. If you have period like regular bleeding that last between 3 – 7 days, then its unlikely you’re pregnant.

Can you have heavy bleeding and still be pregnant?

If you’re having heavy bleeding during pregnancy, then the chances you are still pregnant is slim. Causes of heavy bleeding are

Reasons For Bleeding During Late Pregnancy

There are several reasons you could bleed during the latter part of your pregnancy. Obviously this late in pregnancy no menstruation is involved.

What Should I Do If I Experience Bleeding During Pregnancy

If you experience bleeding, it is wise to have this checked out. If you have been seen in the Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit during your pregnancy, you may contact us directly, up to 15 weeks + 6 days of pregnancy. Your GP or midwife can also help you.

Causes Of Bleeding During Pregnancy

The cause of the bleeding can vary, depending on what stage of pregnancy youre at.

Is Discharge Before Your Period A Sign Of Pregnancy

There is a lot of misinformation out there about pregnancy and one of the most common myths is that discharge before your period is a sign of pregnancy. While it is true that changes in discharge can be an early sign of pregnancy, there are also many other reasons why discharge can change.

Why Cant You Technically Have A Period When Youre Pregnant

Throughout the month, your body prepares for pregnancy. It does this by building up the endometrium, or uterine lining. If you become pregnant, this lining serves to help nourish the fertilized egg at the very early stages of pregnancy. If you dont become pregnant, your body sheds the endometrium, via your period.

Causes Of Bleeding During The First Trimester

During the first trimester of pregnancy, 15 to 25% of women will have a miscarriage. The following are some of the reasons:

Can I Have Discharge In Early Pregnancy

There is a lot of confusion surrounding the topic of discharge in early pregnancy. Some women experience an increase in discharge while they are pregnant, while others do not. So, what is the answer to the question, Can I have discharge in early pregnancy

Periods and pregnancy

You get pregnant when a sperm joins with (fertilises) an egg from one of your ovaries – this is called conception. This fertilised egg then travels to your womb and plants itself in the womb’s lining. It’s now known as an embryo, and continues to grow into a baby.

Causes of bleeding during pregnancy

It’s natural to feel a bit worried if you have bleeding during pregnancy , but it’s quite common and doesn’t always mean there’s a problem. Most people will go on to have normal pregnancies – but you should still tell your doctor or midwife about it as soon as you can, and immediately if you also have tummy pain.

Bleeding during pregnancy and miscarriage

You may have heard of miscarriage – this is when a baby is lost during the first 23 weeks of pregnancy. It can happen for various reasons, including hormonal or blood clotting problems, or if there is something wrong with the baby.

Speaking to your doctor or midwife

If you have any bleeding during pregnancy, or any of the other symptoms mentioned here, you should contact your doctor or midwife straight away.

Key points

although bleeding in pregnancy is normally nothing to worry about, it can be a sign of something more serious

How long before a woman's period can she get pregnant?

The egg is only available for 12 to 24 hours for conception.

How long does it take to conceive after a period?

If you have a shorter cycle, say every 21 to 24 days, that means you are ovulating earlier in the cycle. Because sperm can live inside you for up to 5 days, you could have sex towards the end of your period and then conceive 4 or 5 days later with your early ovulation. To verify, inexpensive, early detection pregnancy and ovulation tests can be ...

How many days away is ovulation?

However, there are exceptions. This applies to women who have a typical 28 to 30 day or longer cycle.

Can you get pregnant while on your period?

A woman’s ovulation cycles can vary, so it’s statistically possible you could become pregnant while on your period. While pregnancy is less likely in the earlier days of your period, the chances increase in the later days.

Can You Get Pregnant on the Last Day of Your Period?

If you stop bleeding on Day 6, have sex on Day 7 and ovulate on Day 11, it’s possible the sperm from Day 6 will be waiting in your fallopian tubes for conception. Your chances of conceiving right after your period increase each day after your bleeding has stopped. If you are trying to conceive this is a good time to have sex. Increase your chances of conception by having sex every other day for the next 14 days.

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