Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a group of symptoms associated with a woman's monthly menstrual cycle. Usually, PMS occurs about 1-2 weeks before a period and ends when the period has started. PMS symptoms can sometimes be similar to early pregnancy symptoms. For this reason, here are some differences between early pregnancy symptoms and PMS symptoms. But remember, the differences can be very subtle and vary from one person to another.
Breast Pain
PMS: During PMS, swollen and painful breasts can occur in the second half of the menstrual cycle. The severity ranges from mild to severe. Typically, the pain is most severe right before your period and gets better afterward as levels of the hormone estrogen decrease.
Pregnancy: Breasts in early pregnancy can be painful or sensitive to the touch. This condition usually occurs 1-2 weeks after pregnancy and lasts a little longer as the hormone progesterone increases due to pregnancy.
Bleeding
PMS: Generally, a woman will not experience bleeding or spotting during PMS. When you have entered your period, the flow will be more pronounced and can last up to one week.
Pregnancy: For some people, the first symptom of pregnancy is light vaginal bleeding or spotting, usually pink or brown. This condition usually occurs on the 10th to 14th day after conception. The spotting usually lasts only 1-2 days, shorter than an average menstrual period.
Mood Changes
PMS: Someone who is PMS tends to be more irritable and easily irritated with their environment. Apart from that, it's normal to cry easily and feel anxious. Doing a little activity and ensuring enough sleep duration can help deal with mood swings caused by PMS.
Pregnancy: When pregnant, a woman will often experience mood changes and feel more emotional until the day of delivery. At one time, you will feel happy and excited to welcome a new family member, but at other times you may also feel sad or cry more easily.
Depression is a symptom of PMS that is often encountered.
Fatigue
PMS: It's normal to be tired and tired during PMS, as is difficulty sleeping. Doing physical activity can improve the quality of sleep, eliminating feelings of tiredness and fatigue.
Pregnancy: When you are pregnant, increased hormone progesterone levels can cause you to feel tired. Fatigue will be felt in the first trimester and last throughout the pregnancy. To help the body cope, eat well, and get enough sleep.
Nausea
PMS: Nausea or vomiting won't just be caused by a missed period. However, problems with the digestive system, including nausea, can accompany PMS.
Pregnancy: Morning sickness is one of pregnancy's classic and main symptoms. Nausea and vomiting often begin when it enters the first month of pregnancy. Despite its name, morning sickness can occur anytime in the morning.
Cravings
PMS: You may notice changes in your eating habits that occur when you are PMS. You may want chocolate, cake, or some other type of food. However, the urge to desire food will not be as strong as during pregnancy.
Pregnancy: When pregnant, you may crave one type of food and reject others. In addition, you may also reject the taste and smell of certain foods, even though you really liked them before. These effects can persist throughout pregnancy.
Dietary changes can occur in the early stages of pregnancy.
Cramps
PMS: If you have PMS, you will likely experience dysmenorrhea or cramps that occur 24-48 hours before your period. The pain will decrease with the arrival of menstruation.
Pregnancy: In early pregnancy, you may experience mild to moderate cramps. These cramps are similar to what you feel during menstruation. Still, cramps that occur can be felt in the lower abdomen or lower back.
We need to know the cause of the symptoms that are felt. If you are pregnant, the sooner the root of the problem is known, the sooner treatment can be given. The best way to determine the difference between PMS symptoms and early pregnancy is to take a pregnancy test.
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Source:
Feintuch, S. & Wilson, D. R. (2018). PMS Symptoms vs. Pregnancy Symptoms. [online]. https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/pms-symptoms-vs-pregnancy-symptoms