Pregnancy vs PMS: Navigating the Similarities and Differences in Symptoms
People often confuse Pregnancy and PMS because they have similar symptoms.
You can experience hormonal changes, pain, stress, etc, as a result of either of the conditions.
However, there are some major differences between PMS and Pregnancy too that cannot be overlooked.
While PMS symptoms occur one to two weeks before periods, pregnancy symptoms can begin as early as the first week after conception.
By understanding these differences, women trying to conceive or trying to manage menstrual cycles can benefit.
Read along to learn the similarities and differences between the symptoms of PMS and Pregnancy to get the appropriate medical treatment.
Differences between Pregnancy vs PMS symptoms
Most of the symptoms of Pregnancy and PMS are common.
But, they might have some differences, which include,
Bleeding or spotting
During the implantation stage of pregnancy, mild spotting may occur in early pregnancy.
This is known as implantation bleeding.
It is not the same as the heavy bleeding some women may experience at the beginning of their period.
Fatigue
Tiredness and fatigue just before the periods are common and go away mostly at the start of your periods.
Some women even experience trouble sleeping as a symptom of PMS.
The increased levels of Progesterone during Pregnancy can cause fatigue.
It is most pronounced during the first trimester but can exist throughout the pregnancy.
Food cravings/aversions
Increased appetite, and cravings for sweet or fatty foods, are common symptoms of PMS.
Changes in hormonal levels can influence cravings right before a period.
During pregnancy, many may have cravings for some meals.
They might dislike some food items because they find their sight or smell unpleasant.
Food aversions are not observed during PMS.
Nausea and/or vomiting
Vomiting and Nausea are common symptoms of early pregnancy and are not common during PMS or an approaching menstrual period.
Therefore, you are more likely to experience these symptoms if you are pregnant.
Cramping
Women may experience cramps one or two days before the periods, which will disappear as the blood flow ends.
It occurs due to uterine contractions that can cause discomfort, especially in the lower abdomen.
Doctors might prescribe Brufen for women experiencing unbearable cramps during PMS.
In early pregnancy, cramping can also occur due to hormonal changes or because of the implantation of the fertilized egg into the uterus.
It can cause mild to moderate cramping and spotting, which may be mistaken for a light period.
Nipple discomfort
Breast tenderness and swelling during PMS can sometimes cause itchiness around the nipples.
The hormone level changes can cause dryness and irritation in the breast area, leading to itchiness.
In pregnancy, itchiness around the nipples may also be caused by the physical changes in the breasts in preparation for breastfeeding.
As the breasts enlarge and the milk ducts form, the skin around the nipples can become stretched and dry.
It can lead to tingling, soreness, or pain around the nipples.
Discharge
High Estrogen levels during pregnancy can cause a white or milky vaginal discharge and darkening of the nipples.
Any discharge of this kind is uncommon during PMS.
Mutual symptoms in PMS and Pregnancy
Symptoms of PMS and Pregnancy can vary from person to person.
The symptoms are most common for both conditions.
Following are the symptoms common to both Pregnancy and PMS,
Breast tenderness
Women may experience breast tenderness and pain during PMS, which can occur in the second half of the menstrual cycle.
Tenderness can range from mild to severe and is at its high just before the periods.
The breast tissues may feel dense, especially in the outer areas. It may feel heavy with slight pain.
The tenderness and pain during PMS are due to high levels of Progesterone.
The breast may feel fuller, heavy, and tender during early pregnancy.
The breast tenderness during pregnancy may be more than the PMS and will happen one or two weeks after conceiving.
In pregnancy, the breast tenderness will last until the Progesterone levels are high in the body.
Increased urination
During PMS, hormonal changes can cause the uterus to pressure the bladder, leading to more frequent urination.
This symptom usually resolves once the period begins.
In early pregnancy, increased urination can also result from hormonal changes and the growing uterus pressing on the bladder.
Bloating
Hormonal changes during PMS can cause the body to retain water, leading to bloating and swelling.
It occurs mostly in the abdominal area but may also be present in other body parts.
In pregnancy, bloating can also be caused by hormonal changes and the growing uterus putting pressure on the digestive system.
Additionally, constipation, common during Pregnancy and PMS, can contribute to bloating.
Headaches
During PMS, hormonal changes can lead to headaches or migraines in some women.
Changes in Estrogen and Progesterone levels may trigger these headaches.
In early pregnancy, headaches occur due to increased blood flow and changes in blood pressure.
These headaches may be more frequent or more severe than those experienced during PMS.
Mood swings
During PMS, many can feel irritable, cranky, have crying spells, and be anxious. This all may exist or go away at the start of the period.
During pregnancy, mood swings exist until birth.
The increase in hormones can affect neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to changes in mood and emotions.
The anxiety and stress that can come with pregnancy and physical discomforts can also contribute to mood swings.
Conclusion
PMS and pregnancy can share similar symptoms, making it difficult to determine the difference.
However, understanding the PMS and pregnancy symptoms can help you determine the appropriate next steps.
If you are experiencing persistent or severe symptoms, it is important to consult with a doctor for guidance.
Knowing the similarities and differences between these two conditions helps you make health decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if it’s PMS or Pregnancy?
Symptoms like missing a period, sore breasts, and itchy and tingling nipples can occur as early pregnancy symptoms. If you are experiencing the symptoms for longer than two weeks, consult a doctor for better advice.
Can early pregnancy feel just like PMS?
Yes, many symptoms of early Pregnancy and PMS are common. But, symptoms such as white vaginal discharge, sore breasts and nipples, and prolonged fatigue can be a sign of the early stage of pregnancy.
Can PMS make your nipples sensitive?
Yes, PMS can make your nipples sensitive, causing soreness and itchiness around the nipples. It occurs due to changing levels of Estrogen and Progesterone just before the period.
Why does PMS cause sore nipples?
PMS can cause sore nipples due to changing hormonal levels. Estrogen and progesterone levels change during PMS, which affects the breast tissue. The drop in Estrogen levels causes shrinking breast tissue leading to sore nipples and breast pain.
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