Implantation: symptoms after ovulation

After fertilization, the egg implants itself in the uterus, this is called implantation or nidation. What are the symptoms of implantation? we explain to you here.

This is what happens at fertilization

Every woman can in her cycle only get pregnant in a certain window of time, namely during their fertile days. But when is the egg fertilized after ovulation? The ovum can after ovulation only be fertilized for a maximum of 12 to 24 hours. However, since sperm can survive in a woman's body for up to five days, your fertile window begins four days before ovulation, includes the day of ovulation, and ends two days after ovulation.

After ovulation, the egg cell travels from the ovary through the fallopian tube to the uterus, where it can be fertilized. If you have unprotected sex during your fertile window, the egg can be fertilized by a sperm.

  • This is what happens at the time of implantation

    If the egg is fertilized, it implants itself in the uterus. You can imagine it in such a way that the fertilized egg attaches itself to the lining of the uterus. The lining of the uterus has spent the entire previous period of the cycle preparing to build a nest in which the egg feels comfortable. 

    If the implant is successful, the body moves on to pregnancy. The whole process lasts from seven to eight days: the fertilized egg needs about five days before it arrives in the uterine cavity, after which the egg needs a few more days before it is attached to the uterine lining and has become at ease. Below you can read more about the possible symptoms of the implant.

Symptoms: Can you feel the implant?

Indeed, the implant can bring symptoms, there are women who can feel the implant. There may be slight traction in the abdomen and back, spotting - so-called implantation bleeding - may also occur, and some women also report feeling as if a bladder infection is on the way. 

However, these symptoms are not very clear and do not occur in all women. True confirmation of whether the implant worked is only offered by a pregnancy test.

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