You notice the signs—sore breasts, fatigue, maybe even a few cravings—and you start wondering: Is my period about to start, or is something else going on?

That question—“Could I be pregnant, or is it just PMS?”—can play on repeat until you get answers.

Let’s take a closer look at the similarities and subtle differences between early pregnancy symptoms and premenstrual symptoms so you can better understand what your body might be telling you.

The Overlap: When Symptoms Feel the Same

Your body reacts to hormonal changes in both PMS and early pregnancy, which can cause many of the same sensations. These include:

• Breast tenderness: Rising hormone levels can cause the breasts to feel sore or sensitive.
• Fatigue: A common effect of hormonal shifts in both PMS and pregnancy.
• Mood changes: Emotional ups and downs can happen in either case.
• Cramping: Mild lower abdominal cramping can appear before your period or in early pregnancy.
• Changes in appetite: You may notice cravings or food aversions linked to hormonal fluctuations.

When these symptoms show up, it’s easy to assume your period is coming—until it doesn’t.

The Key Differences

While PMS and early pregnancy share many signs, there are a few clear distinctions:

• Missed period: This is one of the most reliable early signs of pregnancy.
• Implantation bleeding: Light pink or brown spotting a few days before your period could signal implantation, not menstruation.
• Nausea or queasiness: Morning sickness or mild nausea is typical of early pregnancy, not PMS.
• Frequent urination: During pregnancy, hormones increase blood flow to the kidneys, leading to more frequent bathroom trips.

If these differences stand out, or your symptoms last longer than usual, it’s time to take the next step.

Finding Out for Sure

The only way to confirm whether you’re pregnant is through a pregnancy test. At MyLife Medical & Resource Center, we offer no-cost pregnancy tests and limited ultrasounds in a caring, confidential environment.

You don’t have to keep guessing what your symptoms mean. Schedule your appointment today to learn more about what’s happening with your body and explore your options.

FAQs About Early Pregnancy and PMS

1. How soon can I take a pregnancy test?

Most pregnancy tests can detect the hormone hCG about one week after a missed period. For the most accurate results, test after your period is late.

2. Can PMS make my period late?

Occasionally, stress, illness, or hormone fluctuations can delay your cycle—but a missed period can also mean pregnancy, so it’s best to get tested.

3. What does implantation bleeding look like?

It’s usually light spotting (pink or brown in color) and lasts a day or two, unlike a regular period, which is heavier and redder in color.

4. Can I have pregnancy symptoms and still get a negative test?

Yes. Testing too early may not show an accurate result. Wait a few days and test again, or schedule a lab-quality test for confirmation.

5. What should I do if I’m unsure whether I’m pregnant or not?

Reach out to MyLife Medical & Resource Center for a no-cost pregnancy test and ultrasound services. Our medical team can give you clear answers and help you understand your next steps.