8 Signs Of 'Pregnancy' That Are Likely PMS

Most women who are not ready for a pregnancy at a particular moment, always find themselves spiralling at the thought of experiencing even the slightest symptom that could resemble one—sore breasts, nausea, or fatigue. Defenses go up, and women end up overanalyze every ache and shift, fearing the unexpected, despite knowing it could just be PMS.

Hormonal fluctuations play a critical role in the way our bodies function, influencing everything from mood to metabolism. For many women, the days leading up to their menstrual period come with a host of physical and emotional symptoms collectively known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). However, these very same symptoms can also indicate early pregnancy, leading to confusion and uncertainty. If you’ve ever wondered whether your bloating, mood swings, or breast tenderness signal the arrival of your period or a potential pregnancy, you’re not alone.

While a missed period is often the most definitive early sign of pregnancy, there are several overlapping symptoms that can make it difficult to distinguish between PMS and early pregnancy. Below, we take a closer look at eight symptoms that may seem like PMS but could also be indicative of pregnancy.

1. Breast Tenderness and Swelling

Both PMS and early pregnancy may cause breast tenderness due to increased levels of estrogen and progesterone. However, during pregnancy, breast pain may feel more pronounced and persistent, outlasting the anticipated onset of menstruation. Also, the areolas may darken, a phenomenon that is not seen in PMS.

2. Fatigue and Low Energy

Feeling too tired? Tiredness is one of the most common PMS symptoms, but it can also be an early and one of the most common signs of pregnancy. The body increases its production of progesterone in early pregnancy, which can lead to persistent tiredness. While PMS causes a person to feel tired, the tiredness associated with pregnancy is more extreme and does not subside with time.

3. Mood Swings and Emotional Sensitivity

PMS has long been notorious for mood swings, irritability, and an increase in sensitiveness. Equally, in pregnancy, a lot of hormone surges result in mood swing. However, mood swings experienced during pregnancy often last longer and are more pronounced and are characteristically accompanied by feelings of strong emotions or anxiety.

Also Read: Do Men Experience Pregnancy Symptoms Too? Know About The Couvade Syndrome

4. Abdominal Cramping

Mild cramping is one of the common symptoms of PMS, but it may also happen during early pregnancy as caused by implantation. Implantation cramping is caused when a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. This happens between 6-12 days after ovulation. Unlike menstrual cramps, which become more severe as the period gets close, implantation cramps are usually minimal and temporary.

5. Bloating and Digestive Discomfort

Classic symptoms of PMS are bloating caused by fluctuations in hormones which make the individual retain water, while early pregnancy is also due to increased progesterone causing delayed digestion that produces gas accumulation. Pregnancy-induced bloating could, however persist for a more extended period compared to PMS where it could fade away at the onset of menstruation.

6. Alterations in Food Intake and Cravings

Both PMS and early pregnancy can cause cravings or aversions to odd foods. However, the urges often are much stronger and more selective when pregnant, and the aversion may escalate into nausea and even morning sickness. Another symptom unique to pregnancy, which is rarely experienced with PMS, is increased sensitivity to odors.

7. Urine Pressure

An increased urge to urinate is not a common symptom of PMS, but it is one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. This happens because, after implantation, the body begins producing human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone that increases blood flow to the kidneys, thus making a person go to the bathroom more often. If you experience a sudden and unexplained increase in urination without other symptoms of a urinary tract infection, pregnancy might be a possibility.

8. Light Spotting or Implantation Bleeding

Perhaps the most distinguishable feature of early pregnancy is that of implantation bleeding. This is the process of the fertilized egg attaching to the uterine lining. This sometimes results in light pink or brown spotting that's mistaken for a period. Unlike menstrual bleeding, which can be quite heavy and lasts for several days, an implantation bleed is usually very light and temporary.

If in Doubt, When Should You Take A Pregnancy Test?

If you are experiencing these symptoms and suspect pregnancy, the best way to confirm is by taking a pregnancy test. The "two-week wait" refers to the period between ovulation and when enough hCG has built up in your system to register on a test. Home pregnancy tests are highly accurate when taken after a missed period, though testing too early may lead to false negatives.

When to Consult a Doctor?

If you have symptoms that last longer than your typical PMS cycle or are different from what you have experienced before, such as intense cramping, prolonged spotting, or extreme fatigue, you should see a doctor. A blood test is much more sensitive to pregnancy than a home test, and a doctor can help eliminate other causes for your symptoms.

While there is significant overlap between PMS and early pregnancy symptoms, subtle differences can help distinguish between the two. Understanding your body's patterns and tracking your symptoms can provide clarity, but when in doubt, a pregnancy test or consultation with a medical professional remains the most reliable method for determining whether you are pregnant.