A False Menstruation: What Is It And Why Does It Happen?

A false menstruation is menstrual-like bleeding that occurs during the first weeks of pregnancy. It is known as “false” because it does not actually correspond to a menstrual period as such. In fact, it is usually implantation bleeding.

Many pregnant women go to the doctor when they discover this type of bleeding. This is really the right thing to do. This is because although menstruation is normal in most cases, this symptom can also be a sign that something is wrong.

A false menstruation is also known as “metroragi”. If a woman does not know she is pregnant, she is likely to confuse the bleeding with a normal menstrual period. She may then feel a little puzzled when the dates of the beginning of the pregnancy and the last presumed menstruation do not match.

What is the cause of false menstruation?

Most often, the false menstruation corresponds to implantation bleeding. The process begins on the sixth day after fertilization. This is the time when the embryo is implanted in the outermost layer of the uterus or endometrium.

Implantation lasts between two and three days. During this time, the fertilized egg produces a substance that erodes the cells of the endometrium. In this way, the embryo gradually embeds itself in the outer layer of the uterus.

While this is happening, some blood vessels can rupture and it causes false menstruation. Sometimes the cause of the bleeding can be something else, as we discuss below.

Injury to the vagina or cervix

In the first trimester of pregnancy, these areas are more sensitive and irritated. Therefore, it is easier for them to bleed from a gynecological examination, intercourse or intense physical activity.

A false menstruation: A sign of miscarriage

If there is only one threat of miscarriage, the cervix remains closed. When an abortion is underway, the cervix opens and there are other associated symptoms such as abdominal pain in addition to bleeding.

Ectopic pregnancy

Ectopic or extrauterine pregnancy also causes a false menstrual period. This name refers to a condition in which the embryo implants outside the uterus. Most often it happens in the fallopian tubes, but it can also happen in the abdominal cavity, cervix or an ovary.

In this condition, there is insufficient hormone production and this causes irritation of the endometrium. This can cause bleeding that appears as a light spotting along with other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, etc.

Molar pregnancy

Molagra pregnancy is an unusual tumor that forms in the uterus at the beginning of a pregnancy. This is the result of abnormal fertilization and results in an abnormal fetus. One of the symptoms of this condition is bleeding in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Related symptoms

The symptoms of false menstruation are very similar to those of regular menstruation. Under typical conditions, it occurs on day 12 after ovulation, so it coincides with the date of menstruation.

However, the bleeding is less severe, lighter in color and has no blood clots, ie. it has a more fluid texture. It lasts a maximum of three days and is accompanied by headaches, fatigue, abdominal pain, breast tenderness and irritability.

Usually symptoms as follows are present after the false menstruation:

• Stomach pain and cramps.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Heartburn.
• Swelling of the breasts.
• Frequent urination.
• Nausea and vomiting, especially in the morning.
• Rejection of certain foods.
• Intolerance to some odors.
• Drowsiness.

When to go to a doctor?

If bleeding occurs early in pregnancy, there is no need for alarm. Most often it is a false menstruation and corresponds to implantation bleeding, which is completely normal.

However, there are other causes of bleeding as well. Since it is not possible to determine the cause yourself, it is best to consult a doctor when this happens. This is to confirm that everything is fine and that there is no risk.

Diagnostic tests for a false menstruation

To make the diagnosis, the doctor first makes an interview. They will interrogate you about your general health and medical history. At the same time, they collect information about the date of the bleeding and the characteristics of the bleeding.

They then perform a physical examination and may perform a rectovaginal examination to detect any abnormalities. They may also perform a speculum examination and perform one or more of the following tests:

• Blood tests.
• Thyroid function tests and hormone levels.
• Urine sample.
• Ultrasound of the abdomen and pelvis.
• CT scan or MRI.
• Cell sample.
• Biopsy.

Available treatments

The treatment of false menstruation depends on the cause that causes it. When it is implantation bleeding, as is usually the case, no treatment is necessary. The bleeding stops by itself and will not have consequences.

If the false menstruation is a sign of an impending miscarriage, the doctor will order rest until the bleeding stops. If it is a miscarriage, a decision must be made between letting the body complete it spontaneously or performing a medical abortion.

However, if the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy is confirmed, surgery is required. This should be done as soon as possible. When the cause of the false menstruation is something else, the doctor will indicate what steps to take.

Lifestyle and recommendations

False menstruation does not involve the acquisition of new habits. You should exercise the same care that you would with any pregnancy unless otherwise directed by your doctor. In general, a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, physical activity adapted to pregnancy and peace of mind are recommended.

An impending abortion requires a lot of rest, peace of mind and ongoing medical follow-up. It is important to follow the indications carefully. If the abortion occurs, it is possible to experience more emotions. Consultation with a psychologist is highly recommended.

After overcoming the treatment of an ectopic pregnancy, psychological help may be required. It is also very important to have a social and emotional support network. The prospect of a future pregnancy depends on the characteristics of each case.

Contact your doctor if you have a false menstrual period

When you are facing a false menstruation, it is best to contact your doctor to determine if it is really false menstruation or if there is another problem. The doctor will offer guidelines and these should be followed closely.

It is common for a false menstrual period to occur due to implantation bleeding. This does not affect the development of pregnancy and does not constitute an anomaly. If the cause is anything else, the most important thing is to be guided by the doctor to decide what to do.