Is There Bleeding After Artificial Insemination?

Experiencing slight bleeding is relatively common after undergoing artificial insemination. Typically, this bleeding does not pose a risk to the woman or the success of the treatment.

Possible causes of slight bleeding after insemination are:

• Cervical manipulation during the procedure: The insertion of the catheter through the cervix can irritate cervical tissue, leading to mild bleeding or spotting. The presence of lesions or polyps in the cervix may increase this bleeding due to contact with the catheter.
• Intermenstrual bleeding due to ovulation: Some women experience slight bleeding during ovulation, known as intermenstrual bleeding. Since insemination is synchronized with ovulation, this bleeding may occur within 24-48 hours after the procedure.
• Implantation bleeding: If bleeding occurs 7-10 days after insemination, it may correspond to implantation bleeding, which happens when the embryo attaches to the uterine lining.
• Ovarian stimulation: Ovarian stimulation can cause hormonal imbalances, which may manifest in slight bleeding in rare cases.

If the bleeding is very heavy, persists more than three days, or is accompanied by symptoms such as severe pain, fever, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, or a burning sensation during urination, you should consult your doctor.

If you experience bleeding after artificial insemination, we recommend:

• Staying calm. As explained, light bleeding or spotting is common and does not necessarily indicate treatment failure.

• Observing the characteristics of the bleeding: Check the amount, color, and duration.

• Avoiding intense physical exertion and sexual intercourse during the first few days after the procedure.

• Not using tampons, using instead sanitary pads to reduce infection risk and observing better bleeding characteristics.

• Drinking enough water and maintaining a balanced diet.