Difference Between Pregnancy & PMS Symptoms

Signs of pregnancy can be similar to those of PMS.

It is that time of the month, and your period is sparse. Are you pregnant, or is it premenstrual syndrome? Sometimes the difference between the two can be difficult to identify, especially when you are worried or excited about the prospect of being pregnant. A little knowledge can help you determine the difference.

Missed Period

A missed period is supposed to be a pregnancy symptom, but even this classic symptom can be iffy. Women miss periods for many reasons, and others mistake implantation bleeding--when the egg implants onto the uterine wall--for a period.

Swollen or Tender Breasts

Many women experience tender breasts as a PMS symptom, but if your breasts feel hard and stay swollen after your period, you might be pregnant.

Getting Tired

Women often get a little sleepy around that time of the month, but if you find yourself curling up for bed at 7 p.m. repeatedly, you might want to use a pregnancy test.

Nausea

PMS can cause a loss of appetite or nausea, but it rarely causes you to toss last night's dinner. If you find yourself visiting the bathroom at any time for more than a few days, check for pregnancy.

Cramping

Many women cramp before they miss their period, but because this is a common PMS symptom, it is fairly inconclusive as a pregnancy symptom.

Aches

Headaches and backaches are also not clear pregnancy symptoms, but when coupled with one or more of the other pregnancy symptoms, such as a sparse period, it might be time to invest in a test.

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