How Soon After Implantation Can You Go for a Pregnancy Test?

Implantation is the process in which the embryo attaches to the endometrium wall, marking the onset of pregnancy. During a natural conception, fertilisation occurs in the fallopian tube. This differs from IVF (In vitro fertilisation), in which fertilisation takes place outside the body to result in embryos that are transferred to the uterus during the window of implantation. Learn about when to test after implantation in this blog!

Dr. Manjushree Kothekar, Senior Consultant, Mumbai

- 6 min read

May 08, 2024

How Soon After Implantation Can You Go for a Pregnancy Test

What Is Implantation Bleeding?

Implantation bleeding is a sign that can occur in early pregnancy. All women do not experience it, but some may notice light spotting or discharge when an embryo attaches to the uterine lining. This typically takes place 6-12 days after ovulation.

Implantation bleeding can be light and vary in colour, appearing pink, brown, or even spotting. Unlike a menstrual period, it’s typically shorter and much lighter in flow. This can lead to confusion, with some women mistaking it for a very brief menstrual period.

Let’s understand why implantation bleeding happens! When an embryo implants in the uterine lining, it may cause minor blood vessels to break, leading to light spotting or bleeding.

Not all women experience implantation bleeding. In fact, many women don’t notice any pregnancy symptoms at all during their first trimester. While you are eager about when to test after implantation remember that it’s not a universal phenomenon.

What Are the Symptoms of Implantation?

Implantation bleeding can cause mild cramping and spotting, but it can also happen without any noticeable symptoms. However, it is worth noting that there are different early signs of pregnancy, which you must also know, such as nausea, tiredness, tender breasts, frequent urination, and cravings or aversions to foods and drinks. One must understand that all these symptoms are not specific for pregnancy and can arise from different other conditions as well. The confirmation about pregnancy is possible only by serum beta HCG test.

When to Go for Pregnancy Test After Implantation?

Let’s help you understand when is the right time to opt for a pregnancy test after implantation

Wait for a Positive Test: Don’t take a pregnancy test right after implantation bleeding. The hormone (hCG) that pregnancy tests detect needs time to reach detectable levels. Testing too early can lead to a false negative (negative result even if you’re pregnant).

Best Time to Test: For a more accurate result, wait at least a week after implantation bleeding before testing. This increases the chance of a reliable result. Many women find it easiest to wait until they’ve missed their expected period to take a pregnancy test. This coincides with when hCG levels are typically high enough for reliable detection.

Listen to Your Body: Every woman is different. If you’re unsure when to test, consult a fertility specialist. They can advise you based on your specific situation and medical history.

Early Pregnancy Signs: It’s better to check for the signs and symptoms of the early pregnancy such as breast tenderness, nausea/vomiting (morning sickness), frequent urination, fatigue/exhaustion, food cravings/aversions, and mood swings. These may be different from one woman to another, and not all women have these symptoms.

When trying to know when to take a pregnancy test after implantation bleeding, you have to be patient and focus on how your body reacts at the very early stages of the conceiving period.

Conclusion

There are slight differences between how a fertilised egg implants in natural pregnancy and IVF. Knowing these differences can be helpful for women trying to get pregnant. Understanding the physiology of pregnancy will alleviate many concerns. Couples should know when is the right time to test for pregnancy.