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Signs of Period Vs Pregnancy: How To Spot The Difference

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Are you trying to conceive? Then tracking your ovulation window would be your highest priority! But here’s the thing, your pregnancy symptoms tend to mimic your PMS symptoms. This can make things quite confusing and a little difficult for you. However, there’s no need to stress out. We at ALWAYS have chalked out the signs of period vs pregnancy, including the ones that are unique to a pregnancy and the ones that overlap with the [PMS symptoms](/tips-and-advice-for-women/pms/pms-symptoms-before-your-period). So, keep on reading!

- [Unique Pregnancy Symptoms](#unique-pregnancy-symptoms)
- [Common PMS Vs Pregnancy Symptoms](#common-pms-vs-pregnancy-symptoms)


Unique Pregnancy Symptoms

<h3 class="charpcos">1. A missed period</h3>
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This is one of the most evident PMS vs pregnancy symptoms that highlights the possibility of pregnancy. Chances are if your periods are a week late, you might want to take a pregnancy test. That being said, your uterus can skip out on periods due to abnormal hormonal changes caused by stress, menopause, low body weight, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid or diabetes. 


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<h2>Unique Pregnancy Symptoms</h2>

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Increased vaginal discharge

<h3 class="charpcos">2. Increased vaginal discharge</h3>
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Due to an increase in the levels of oestrogen in the body, you tend to experience more vaginal discharge during pregnancy. It’s milky and white in colour. For staying protected and fresh through this icky discharge, [panty liners](/panty-liners) are your best choice. Try out the [ALWAYS Extra Protect Panty Liners](/panty-liners/always-extra-protect) which has an odour neutralising technology that keeps you fresh through the day. It comes in an extra-long size and a breathable design which offers extra protection and comfort. 
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<h3 class="charpcos">3. Spotting</h3>
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If you need a clearer difference between a period and pregnancy symptoms, then spotting or light vaginal bleeding can give away the good news! Spotting, popularly called [implantation bleeding](/tips-and-advice-for-women/pregnancy/implantation-bleeding-should-you-worry-about-it) occurs a few days prior to the week you ideally would start menstruating. This type of bleeding is lighter in flow than your regular period and has a pink or light brown colour. It might last for a few hours or a few days. 
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<h3 class="charpcos">4. Morning sickness</h3>
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Morning sickness is the most common pregnancy symptom experienced by pregnant women. You might think that nausea before a period is also common. But this type of nausea kicks in a month after you get pregnant. It can occur at any time in the day and it could be sometimes accompanied by vomiting. It’s noted that bouts of nausea subside as soon as you enter the second trimester. However, it could last throughout your pregnancy too! 
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<h3 class="charpcos">5. Nipple changes</h3>
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If you are wondering how to differentiate between breast tenderness before period vs it being an early pregnancy sign then here’s your answer. Breast changes during pregnancy tend to stay for a longer period of time. Particularly, you would notice that the area around the nipple would get darker or become larger. You might also see some bumps around the areola. But you don’t need to worry as these are glands that produce oil and prep your nipples for nursing your little one. 
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<h3 class="charpcos">6. Frequent urination</h3>
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Another worth mentioning PMS vs pregnancy symptoms is the frequent urge to pee. This urge kicks it mostly four weeks after you conceive. As your pregnant kidneys work extra to filter out waste from the blood, you tend to have more bathroom visits. Additionally, the growing belly also puts pressure on your bladder and triggers the urination response. 
<bR>

<h3 class="charpcos">7. Heightened sensitivity</h3>
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The raging oestrogen in a pregnant woman's body is responsible for making her emotions heightened. This is why many pregnant women complain about feeling extremely sensitive. They also have a heightened sense of smell in the first trimester. 


Common PMS Vs Pregnancy Symptoms

Now that we’ve seen the unique pregnancy symptoms, it is time to understand signs of period vs pregnancy that overlap but there is a slight difference. They are as follows: 

<h3 class="charpcos">1. Mood swings</h3>
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Feeling a little moody before periods is quite common and normal. You might go back to being yourself as soon as your period begins. In the case of pregnancy, your mood swings would tend to change every other day. All thanks to your fluctuating hormonal levels. 
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<h3 class="charpcos">2. Food cravings</h3>
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When one experiences food cravings as a PMS symptom, she craves for sweets or fatty foods. When it comes to pregnancy, some women crave to eat non-edible foods. This condition is called pica and one must consult a doctor for the same. 


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<h2>Common PMS Vs Pregnancy Symptoms</h2>

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<h3 class="charpcos">3. Fatigue</h3>
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The key difference between this sign of period vs pregnancy is that you feel less tired once your period begins. However, in the case of pregnancy, it could start during your first trimester and last up to your entire pregnancy. In both cases, you should eat well and get a good amount of sleep.

<h3 class="charpcos">4. Cramps</h3>
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You are likely to experience cramps 24 - 48 hours prior to your periods. The discomfort experienced by the cramps during periods tends to ease out as your periods come to an end. Coming to pregnancy, you might notice light cramps in the early stage of your pregnancy. In case you have had a miscarriage in the past, make sure to be cognizant of this symptom. Report your doctor in case you experience severe cramps. 


When to See a Doctor

If you experience missed periods and feel that you are pregnant, it’s best to take an at-home pregnancy test. To confirm your pregnancy, it’s further advised that you visit a doctor. In case you aren’t pregnant, your doctor would help you find the reason behind your missed periods. He would ask you about your last period cycle and its length. Here it’s essential to keep a track of your cycle. You can do that by using our [period calculator](/period-calculator) which tracks your cycle and predicts your next due date.


<h2>When to See a Doctor</h2>

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Takeaway

__Takeaway__    
Remember that anyone can easily be confused between the signs of period and pregnancy. Therefore, the best way to know why your body is reacting in a particular way is by consulting a doctor. He will help you with the right advice and treatment if required. 


FAQ 1

Cramps, bloating and breast tenderness are some of the PMS symptoms experienced a week before periods. Coming to pregnancy, light vaginal discharge or spotting can be noted a week prior to your periods. 

__FAQs__<br>
<h2>1. Which PMS or pregnancy symptoms are experienced a week before periods?</h2>

FAQ 2

Chances are that the signs of period vs pregnancy can overlap and make your pregnancy feel like just another period. To stay clear of your doubts, it’s best to consult a doctor. 

<h2>2. Can pregnancy feel like a period is coming?</h2>

FAQ 3

The drop in the hormonal levels before a period can make your breasts feel sore and tender.

<h2>3. What causes breast tenderness before a period?</h2>

Disclaimer

__Disclaimer:__    
Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; [Always pads prioritize safety](/about-us/inside-always-pads-safe), protection and comfort of its consumers.

Signs of Period vs Pregnancy - Confused between PMS vs. Pregnancy symptoms? Learn the difference between period symptoms and pregnancy symptoms only here at Always. 