Though symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and pregnancy are often similar, there are several key differences and certain symptoms that are unique to each.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a group of symptoms linked to the menstrual cycle. Typically, PMS symptoms occur one to two weeks before your period. They usually stop after your period starts.
The symptoms of PMS can be very similar to those of early pregnancy. Read on to learn how to tell the difference. But remember, these differences are subtle and can vary from person to person
Sex and gender
In this article, we use “male and female” to refer to someone’s sex as determined by their chromosomes, and “men and women” when referring to their gender (unless quoting from sources using nonspecific language).
Sex is determined by chromosomes, and gender is a social construct that can vary between time periods and cultures. Both of these aspects are acknowledged to exist on a spectrum both historically and by modern scientific consensus.
PMS
During PMS, breast swelling and tenderness
Breast tissue
Pregnancy
Your breasts during early pregnancy may feel sore, sensitive, or tender to the touch. They may also feel fuller and heavier. This tenderness and swelling will usually happen one to two weeks after you conceive, and it can last for a while as your progesterone levels rise due to your pregnancy.
PMS
You generally won’t have bleeding or spotting if it’s PMS. When you have your period, the flow is noticeably heavier and can last up to a week.
Pregnancy
For some, one of the first signs of pregnancy is light vaginal bleeding or spotting that’s usually pink or dark brown. This typically happens 1-2 weeks after conception and is usually not enough to fill pads or tampons.
PMS
You may feel irritable and a bit grouchy during PMS. You may also find yourself crying easily and feel anxious. These symptoms typically go away after your period starts.
Getting some exercise and plenty of sleep may help. However, if you feel sad, overwhelmed, hopeless, or lack energy for 2 weeks or more, you may be experiencing depression. In this case, consider speaking with a doctor. They can provide support and treatment options that may help.
Remember you are not alone.
Pregnancy
If you’re pregnant,
As with PMS, these latter symptoms can also indicate depression. If you’re concerned about your symptoms and think you might be depressed, be sure to talk with a doctor. Depression during pregnancy is common, but it can be treated.
PMS
Tiredness or fatigue, as well as trouble sleeping, are common during PMS. These symptoms should go away when your period starts. Getting some exercise can help improve your sleep and lessen your fatigue.
Pregnancy
While you’re pregnant, increased levels of the hormone progesterone can make you tired. Fatigue can be more pronounced during your first trimester, but it can last throughout your pregnancy as well. To help your body cope, it can be beneficial to eat well and get lots of sleep.
PMS
You shouldn’t expect nausea or vomiting if your period is late, but some digestive discomfort, such as nausea, can accompany symptoms of PMS.
Pregnancy
Morning sickness is one of the most classic and clear signs you’re pregnant. Bouts of nausea often begin a month after you get pregnant. Vomiting may or may not accompany the nausea. Despite the name, morning sickness can occur at any time of the day. However, not all people experience morning sickness.
PMS
When you have PMS, you’ll likely notice that your eating habits change. You may crave chocolate, carbohydrates, sugars, sweets, or salty foods. Or you may have a ravenous appetite. These cravings don’t happen to the same extent when you’re pregnant.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, you may have highly specific cravings, and you may be totally uninterested in other foods. You may also have an aversion to certain smells and tastes, even ones you once liked. These effects can last throughout pregnancy.
Some pregnant people can experience pica, where they compulsively eat items that have no nutritional value, such as ice, dirt, dried paint flakes, or pieces of metal. If you have cravings for nonfood items, it’s important to speak with a doctor.
PMS
If you have PMS, you may experience dysmenorrhea, which are cramps that typically happen 24 to 48 hours before your period. The pain often decreases during your period and eventually go away by the end of your flow.
Menstrual cramps will often decrease after your first pregnancy or as you age. Some women will experience more cramping as they start to go into menopause.
Pregnancy
Early in pregnancy, you may experience mild or light cramping. These cramps will probably feel like the light cramps you get during your period, but they’ll be in your lower stomach or lower back.
If you have a history of pregnancy loss, don’t ignore these symptoms. If they don’t subside, talk with a doctor. You can have the cramps for weeks up to months when you’re pregnant. If you know you’re pregnant and these cramps are accompanied by any bleeding or watery discharge, see a doctor immediately.
It’s important to know the cause of your symptoms. If you’re pregnant, the sooner you find out, the sooner you can get the right care. The best way to tell the difference between symptoms of PMS and early pregnancy is to take a pregnancy test.
It can also be helpful to track your symptoms so you notice when there’s a change in your typical pattern. If you have questions or concerns about any of your symptoms, be sure to speak with a doctor.