How Can You Tell The Difference Between PMS And Early Pregnancy?

When it comes to discerning between premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and early pregnancy, it is essential to pay close attention to how your body is responding to various symptoms.

Menstrual Cycle Changes

One of the primary indicators of potential pregnancy is a missed period. In early pregnancy, menstruation does not occur, whereas PMS usually culminates in the arrival of your period.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms associated with early pregnancy and are typically not as prevalent in individuals experiencing PMS. It is worth noting that nausea in early pregnancy often subsides after the first trimester.

Breast Tenderness

For some individuals, breast tenderness can be a sign of both PMS and early pregnancy. However, in the case of pregnancy, this tenderness is often more pronounced and persistent.

Food Aversions and Cravings

Cravings or aversions to certain foods are frequently linked to early pregnancy rather than PMS. If you find yourself repelled by foods you typically enjoy or yearning for new cravings, it could indicate pregnancy.

Fatigue Levels

Extreme fatigue is another symptom that can be observed in both PMS and early pregnancy. Nevertheless, in pregnancy, this fatigue might feel more overwhelming, making you want to rest even more than usual.

Mood Swings

Emotional fluctuations are often associated with both PMS and early pregnancy. However, the intensity and duration of emotional changes may vary, with pregnancy-induced mood swings potentially feeling more heightened.

Urination Frequency

Increased frequency of urination is a symptom more commonly linked to early pregnancy than PMS. This could be due to the hormonal changes and pressure exerted on the bladder as the uterus expands.

Spotting or Implantation Bleeding

Spotting or implantation bleeding, which occurs when the embryo attaches to the uterine lining, is a sign of early pregnancy. Such bleeding does not typically manifest in individuals experiencing PMS.

Home Pregnancy Tests

Using a home pregnancy test is an effective way to confirm whether you are pregnant. These tests detect the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine, a hormone produced during pregnancy.

Consulting a Healthcare Provider

If you are uncertain about whether you are experiencing PMS or early pregnancy, consulting a healthcare provider can provide you with clarity and guidance. They can conduct further tests to confirm your pregnancy status.

How Can You Tell The Difference Between PMS And Early Pregnancy?

Conclusion

In conclusion, while some symptoms of PMS and early pregnancy may overlap, there are distinctive differences that can help you differentiate between the two. By being attentive to your body and seeking professional advice when needed, you can better understand your current health status.

Photo of author

Nancy Sherman

Nancy Sherman has more than a decade of experience in education and is passionate about helping schools, teachers, and students succeed. She began her career as a Teaching Fellow in NY where she worked with educators to develop their instructional practice. Since then she held diverse roles in the field including Educational Researcher, Academic Director for a non-profit foundation, Curriculum Expert and Coach, while also serving on boards of directors for multiple organizations. She is trained in Project-Based Learning, Capstone Design (PBL), Competency-Based Evaluation (CBE) and Social Emotional Learning Development (SELD).