Implantation cramping usually happens 6–12 days after ovulation, often earlier than a period, while period cramps start just before or during menstruation. Implantation pain is typically mild, short-lived (a few hours to 1–2 days), and feels like light pulling or tingling, whereas period cramps are usually more intense, longer-lasting, and build up with bleeding. Early signs of implantation can include light spotting (implantation bleeding), mild cramping, breast tenderness, fatigue, and slight nausea, which may suggest early pregnancy instead of an upcoming cycle. A pregnancy test is most reliable from the first day of a missed period or about 12–14 days after ovulation, and a doctor should be consulted if cramping is severe, persistent, or accompanied by heavy bleeding, dizziness, or unusual symptoms to rule out other conditions.