Implantation or period?

[sausageface]

So this is the first month of using ovulation tests. I got my positive/smiley face (using digital to take out the guess work!) on the 8th so my app predicts I then ovulated on the 9th.

Based on a 14 day luteal phase my app predicts my period on Friday, the 23rd. I've had twinges/slight cramps the last few days which has made me hopeful but then today I have started bleeding. No clots (sorry TMI) but heavier than the internet suggests is 'normal'. Still the same twinges, none of which is normal for me.

Unsure what is considered an acceptable level of bleeding for implantation or if I'm clinging on to hope?!

If this does turn out to be a period it would mean I've had a short Luteal phase- just 10 days from ovulation. Would this be something to be concerned about?

I suppose a test in a few days would tell me for sure if the bleed doesn't worsen but in the meantime I wonder if anyone has any experience/advice? Thanks!

Hello!

I've had weird bleeding since last Thursday (a week before when AF should be) that was much less than a normal for me and at most times just spotting that didnt need a pad. This has been coupled with weird cramps and just nothing normal for me.

From asking around here and researching my takeaways are that implantation bleeds can be very different in different people so although the internet just says tiny drops, I've seen people on here that mention something more like a light period that lasted 4-5 days that ended in a BFP. On the other side, our bodies can be pretty dicky especially when you're TTC and super aware, so it could be an early period or just your body playing up. I've also seen lots of people post about weird bleeds and it's still a BFN.

I've drove myself mad with tests this week (which is probably stressing and making it worse) so I'd say try to wait a few days, keep an eye on it and test near to Friday. Fingers crossed for you

@sausageface how long is your luteal phase normally? 10-14 days is considered normal. Most apps don't count spotting as your period so if you're only spotting your luteal phase will be longer. On the other hand it could be implantation bleeding which can be as late as 12 DPO. I've heard of people bleeding for three days thinking it was their period but it was implantation. I'd test at end of week if it doesn't feel like a normal period for you x

Thanks so much for your replies! I actually hadn't been over thinking this month until I got this bleed and it completely threw me off!

I'm unsure on my usual luteal phase as this is the first month I've checked ovulation sticks. I have irregular length cycles (shortest has been 30 days and longest was 40. But that was an extra strange one!)

Reassuring to hear that your reading tells you implantation can vary that much for people so I'll try not to rule myself out completely this month yet! Will see what the next few days bring.

@sausageface , I though I am reading my old post as that's exactly 100% same to what I had.
Smiley digital, 10DPO heavier than internet advised bleeding, followed by cramping and just total weirdness going on in my lower abdomen, suggesting I am absolutely pregnant. BFN after BFN.... 23 DPO got myself extra sensitive pregnancy test ( FRER) and had 4 BFP 4 mornings in a row. 27 DPO scan showed empty uterus and blood test negative HCG. So it either was a chemical pregnancy or god knows what.... ☹️ Was extremely charmed that it will be ectopic. But I am starting to believe that bleeding at 10DPO was a period/ miscarriage and that's why tests a week later still were picking up low HCG level. I had no bleeding since and just tested positive for ovulation... Hope your story turns out to be a positive and lasting one 🌻