A woman's body goes through several changes during a lifetime. Menstruation and pregnancy are two important life events that mark the beginning of a woman's reproductive years and the development of a foetus within the womb, respectively. While these two processes are distinct, they are also interconnected. What's more is that sometimes, menstruating women can develop Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) symptoms that can be similar to pregnancy signs, causing a certain amount of confusion among many women.
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What Is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) refers to a group of physical and emotional symptoms that many women experience in the days or weeks leading up to their menstrual period. These are usually caused by fluctuating hormone levels during the menstrual cycle.
According to the Office on Women's Health, over 90% of menstruating women say they get some premenstrual symptoms, such as bloating, headaches, and moodiness. Globally, about 47.8% of women of reproductive age develop PMS, with around 20% experiencing severe symptoms that interfere with daily activities, while others have mild to moderate symptoms, according to StatPearls Publishing.
Common Signs Shared By PMS And Pregnancy
Both PMS and pregnancy are associated with hormonal changes. While PMS is closely linked to the cyclical rise and fall of oestrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy involves a more dramatic shift in hormone levels.
Following ovulation, progesterone levels rise, preparing the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy. If fertilisation doesn't occur, both oestrogen and progesterone levels drop, triggering the shedding of the uterine lining, causing menstruation.
But both processes can cause certain similar symptoms. These include:
Breast tenderness
Breast changes are common during PMS as well as pregnancy. Signs include breast swelling, tenderness, and sensitivity, often feeling heavier and fuller. However, these changes are more noticeable and longer-lasting during pregnancy. On the other hand, PMS-related breast changes subside during the period or just after it ends.
Bloating
Bloating is a common symptom that can occur both during PMS and early pregnancy. This is because of the fluctuating hormone levels, particularly progesterone, which can lead to water retention and digestive changes. However, while bloating can be present in both, it's often more persistent during pregnancy compared to PMS.
Cramping
Both PMS and pregnancy can cause mild cramps in the abdomen. However, these cramps may be milder in pregnancy than PMS. PMS cramps usually occur in the days leading up to your period, while early pregnancy cramps may be felt around the time your period is due or slightly before, coinciding with implantation.
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Fatigue
Feeling tired can also signal PMS or pregnancy. While PMS occurs days before your menstruation, pregnancy-related fatigue can occur during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Mood swings
The fluctuations in hormone levels during PMS and pregnancy can also lead to extreme mood swings. The changes in oestrogen and progesterone levels can directly impact brain chemistry and can lead to emotional changes like irritability, sadness, and sudden shifts in mood.
How To Confirm If You Are Pregnant
In addition to the above-mentioned signs and symptoms, there are other indications that can confirm a pregnancy, including:
- Nausea
- Increased urination
- A missed period
However, it is always best to take a pregnancy test, either at home or at a clinic/hospital. If you have further doubts and concerns, consult a healthcare provider immediately.