While symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and pregnancy may overlap, distinct differences exist, and each condition presents unique symptoms.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) encompasses a set of symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle, typically occurring one to two weeks before menstruation. These symptoms commonly cease once the period begins.
The signs of PMS can closely resemble those of early pregnancy. Continue reading to learn the dfferences, bearing in mind that these differences are subtle and can vary among individuals.
Breast Pain
PMS: In the second half of your menstrual cycle, breast swelling and tenderness are common PMS symptoms. The intensity varies from mild to severe, peaking just before your period, particularly in women of childbearing age.
Breast tissue may feel lumpy and dense, especially in the outer regions, accompanied by a sensation of fullness, tenderness, and a dull, heavy pain. This discomfort typically improves post-period as progesterone levels decrease.
Pregnancy: Early pregnancy may bring about sore, sensitive, and tender breasts, feeling fuller and heavier. This tenderness and swelling typically arise one to two weeks after conception, persisting as progesterone levels rise with the onset of pregnancy.
Bleeding
PMS: Typically, PMS doesn’t involve bleeding or spotting. When your period arrives, the flow is noticeably heavier and can extend up to a week.
Pregnancy: Early pregnancy may exhibit one of the initial signs as light vaginal bleeding or spotting, usually in pink or dark brown hues. This occurs approximately 10 to 14 days after conception and is typically insufficient to fill pads or tampons. The spotting usually lasts for just a day or two, making it shorter than a regular period.
Mood Changes
PMS: Irritability, moodiness, crying spells, and anxiety are common during PMS, typically resolving once your period begins. Incorporating exercise and ensuring adequate sleep can help alleviate PMS-related mood swings. However, persistent feelings of sadness, overwhelm, hopelessness, or low energy for two weeks or more may indicate depression, prompting a discussion with your doctor.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy can bring about lasting mood changes until childbirth, making emotional fluctuations more likely. While you may experience joy and excitement anticipating the new addition to your family, moments of sadness and increased susceptibility to tears can also occur. Similar to PMS, these symptoms could be indicative of depression. If concerned, consult your doctor, as depression during pregnancy is common and treatable.
Fatigue
PMS: Fatigue and sleep disturbances often accompany PMS but typically resolve with the onset of your period. Incorporating exercise can enhance sleep quality and alleviate fatigue during this time.
Pregnancy: Elevated progesterone levels during pregnancy can lead to increased tiredness, especially prominent in the first trimester but potentially persisting throughout. Maintaining a nutritious diet and ensuring ample sleep can aid your body in coping with pregnancy-related fatigue.
Nausea
PMS: While late periods may not necessarily lead to nausea or vomiting, some digestive discomfort, like nausea, can be part of PMS symptoms.
Pregnancy: Morning sickness is a prominent and unmistakable sign of pregnancy, with bouts of nausea typically commencing a month after conception. Vomiting may or may not accompany the nausea, and despite its name, morning sickness can occur at any time of the day. It’s important to note that not all women experience morning sickness.
Food Cravings
PMS: Changes in eating habits, such as cravings for chocolate, carbohydrates, sugars, sweets, or salty foods, and a heightened appetite, are common during PMS. However, these cravings are not as pronounced as those experienced during pregnancy.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy may bring about highly specific cravings and aversions to certain smells and tastes, which can endure throughout the entire pregnancy. Some individuals may also experience pica, a condition where non-nutritional items like ice, dirt, paint flakes, or metal pieces are compulsively consumed. If you have cravings for nonfood items, it’s crucial to consult your doctor promptly.
Cramping
PMS: Individuals with PMS may encounter dysmenorrhea, characterized by cramps occurring 24 to 48 hours before menstruation. The discomfort typically diminishes during the period and subsides by the end of the flow. Menstrual cramps may decrease after the first pregnancy or with aging, although some women might experience increased cramping during menopause.
Pregnancy: Early in pregnancy, mild or light cramping may occur, resembling the sensations felt during menstruation but localized in the lower stomach or lower back. If there is a history of pregnancy loss, it’s important not to disregard these symptoms. Rest and consult with a doctor if the cramps persist. Pregnancy-related cramps can persist for weeks to months, and if accompanied by bleeding or watery discharge, immediate medical attention is advised.
Determining the cause of your symptoms is crucial. Early identification of pregnancy allows for timely and appropriate care. To differentiate between PMS and early pregnancy symptoms, taking a pregnancy test is the most effective method.
Tracking your symptoms can aid in recognizing deviations from your usual pattern. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your symptoms, it’s advisable to consult with your doctor for guidance and clarification.
