Question: I started my period four or five days early — am I pregnant?
An early period is not a sign of pregnancy, but spotting may be mistaken for a period, which could indicate a pregnancy.
There can be various reasons for a period to come early or for other vaginal bleeding.
Many women have irregular cycles. You may simply be experiencing a shorter menstrual cycle.
In the case of conception, some women experience so-called implantation bleeding. This can happen when a fertilised egg implants in the uterus. The timing for this is before one’s period is due: implantation occurs around the 6th day after sexual intercourse.
However, implantation bleeding differs from menstrual bleeding by being lighter, shorter, and pink or brown.
In early pregnancy, you may also experience light bleeding associated with hormonal changes. This is not menstrual bleeding either.
However, if you are experiencing period-like bleeding a week early, this does not necessarily mean you are pregnant. Even more regular cycles can shift for various (usually benign) reasons, such as being on medication, dieting, travel or stress. Taking a home pregnancy test will provide some clarity.
Receive an initial assessment by taking our 🤰 Online Pregnancy Test!
More Questions or Concerns?
Was your period early, and now you are concerned? Are you wondering whether you could be pregnant?
For more information, go to Period while Pregnant.
You may also like one of our free online quizzes:
- 🧑⚕️ (Suspecting a) pregnancy — How soon to see a doctor?
- 💧 Could I be pregnant from the pull-out method or pre-cum?
- 💊 Should I take Plan B?
