Implantation pain: does it really exist?

What is implantation pain?

Implantation pain can occur when the fertilised egg implants in the uterine lining (a process known in medical terminology as nidation or implantation). Specialists refer to it as nidation pain.¹

Pulling sensation in the lower abdomen: can you feel implantation?

First things first: not every pregnant woman notices so-called implantation pain. So if you do not feel a pulling sensation in your lower abdomen when the fertilised egg implants, it does not necessarily mean that you are not pregnant.

Some women do notice, however, when the fertilised egg has implanted in the uterus. They report clear signs of it, such as a pulling sensation or a slight pain in the lower abdomen. The term ‘pain’ seems somewhat exaggerated in this context. When the blastocyst implants in the uterine lining, it is more of a pinching or pulling sensation in the area of the uterus. So far, however, there is no scientific proof of pain during nidation.¹

Slight malaise or nausea is also mentioned as a symptom. In addition, an increased feeling of hunger or slight dizziness can occur shortly after implantation. Symptoms such as headaches, a feeling of tightness in the breasts or a metallic taste in the mouth are also described as early signs of pregnancy, which can likewise appear just a few days after fertilisation.

Light bleeding can also occur while the blastocyst implants in the uterus. Some women mistake it for their menstrual period and think they are pregnant despite having a period. In most cases, implantation bleeding is very light and completely harmless.²

Implantation pain and implantation bleeding are not as conclusive as a pregnancy test, as they can also be confused with bleeding or pain that has other causes.

What does nidation pain feel like?

At the time of nidation, you may feel a pulling, pinching, stabbing, pricking or pressing sensation, or a slight twinge in the lower abdomen; this is not unusual and no reason to see a doctor. For your body, it is the beginning of pregnancy.

Where can implantation pain be felt?

In various forums, women report pain in the lower abdomen at the level of the uterus, next to the navel or in the groin area. The implantation pain may be limited to the left or right side.

When does implantation pain occur?

When the fertilised egg ‘docks’ onto the uterine lining after its journey through the fallopian tube, implantation pain can occur. This is usually the case after 5-6 days. So if you feel a slight pain or pulling sensation in your lower abdomen between the 4th and 7th day after ovulation, it may be implantation pain caused by the embryo.²

How long does implantation pain last?

If implantation pain is felt at all, it can last anywhere from a brief moment to several days, during which it keeps coming back. No universal statement can be made here, as the perception of pain varies greatly from woman to woman. However, if the pain lasts longer and does not improve, the usual rule applies: when in doubt, it is best to seek medical advice.

Nidation pain: how it differs from other types of pain

Pain or a pulling sensation in the lower abdomen can of course also have other causes, including the following:

• Mittelschmerz: if the signs appear before implantation, around the time of ovulation, they are ovulation pains, which are among the ovulation symptoms.²
• Menstrual pain: if you feel mild pain in your lower abdomen later, that is, shortly before or on the day your period is due, it is very likely to be period pain. Normal period pains are often stronger and more regular than implantation pain. With implantation pain, the pulling sensation tends to be limited to the lower abdominal area, whereas menstrual pain can also radiate to other parts of the body.

No implantation pain: can I still be pregnant?

Many women trying to conceive feel no implantation pain. Implantation bleeding is more common, but not everyone notices it either. This is no cause for concern. Implantation pain and implantation bleeding say nothing about how the pregnancy will progress. However, if bleeding occurs in early pregnancy, it should always be checked by a doctor.

One thing is certain: whether you notice implantation pain or not, it is not a reliable indication of pregnancy, as nidation pain cannot be measured objectively. In the end, only a pregnancy test can give you certainty.