Some women experience weight loss early in their pregnancy, especially those who have more severe nausea with vomiting. Bloating/weight change: It’s possible to experience weight gain, bloating and a gassy feeling with both early pregnancy and PMS.Diarrhea is more frequently associated with PMS. Gastrointestinal issues: Constipation is a common early pregnancy and PMS symptom.Mood changes: While general “mood swings” are often listed as an early pregnancy symptom, specific mood changes that can occur with PMS include feelings of sadness, depression, not wanting to be around other people, anxiety, irritability, angry outbursts, crying more than usual, feelings of confusion, poor concentration, issues with memory, clumsiness and changes in sexual desire.Fatigue/sleep problems: Whereas PMS sleep issues vary and can include feeling a bit more tired, sleeping too little or too much, taking more naps throughout the day and insomnia, early pregnancy fatigue is more commonly described as “extreme” or “feeling very tired.” 1-4.Headache: This is a common early pregnancy and PMS symptom.1 Because these symptoms can be similar to early pregnancy symptoms, many women who experience PMS symptoms may wonder, Am I about to get my period, or am I pregnant? Here we look at the subtle differences behind each. The “S,” or “syndrome,” in “PMS” refers to instances in which these symptoms occur month after month, affecting a woman’s everyday life. What is PMS?Īccording to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the “PM,” or “premenstrual,” in “PMS” refers to the physical and/or mood changes women experience in the days before menstruation. But there are some nuances to early pregnancy and PMS symptoms that can offer additional clues.
And the only way to know if you’re pregnant is if you confirm your pregnancy with a positive pregnancy test. The only way to know if it’s PMS is if your period arrives shortly after. If you’re feeling a bit crampy and tired, and your period is almost due, you may wonder if the symptoms you’re feeling mean that your period is coming or you’re pregnant.