Emotional Swings: Pms Or Pregnancy?

Experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions is a common symptom of both premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and pregnancy. However, there are some key differences between the two. While PMS can cause irritability, crying spells, and anxiety, these symptoms typically subside once the period starts. On the other hand, pregnancy can bring about a wider range of emotions, from crying to pure elation, and these mood swings can last until childbirth. Additionally, depression during pregnancy is common and should be addressed with a doctor.

To further complicate matters, the symptoms of PMS and early pregnancy often overlap, with both conditions causing breast tenderness, fatigue, and changes in appetite. However, there are some unique symptoms that can indicate pregnancy, such as nausea, vomiting, and a missed period.

Breast tenderness and soreness

PMS

During PMS, breast swelling and tenderness usually occur during the second half of the menstrual cycle, particularly in the week before menstruation. The tenderness can range from mild to severe and is typically most intense right before the period starts. The pain often improves during or immediately after the period as progesterone levels decrease.

The breast tissue may feel bumpy and dense, especially in the outer areas. There might also be a feeling of breast fullness, along with a heavy, dull pain.

Pregnancy

In early pregnancy, breasts may feel sore, sensitive, tender, fuller, and heavier. This tenderness and swelling typically occur one to two weeks after conception and can last for several weeks as progesterone levels rise.

Breast tenderness during pregnancy is usually associated with other symptoms, such as nipple sensitivity, and changes in the areola, such as protrusion, darkening, and the appearance of bumps (Montgomery's tubercles).

Relief for Breast Tenderness

For both PMS and pregnancy, some measures to relieve breast tenderness include wearing a comfortable and supportive bra, using cold or warm compresses, moisturising, and wearing loose clothing.

Emotional changes and mood swings

Changes in mood are common in both early pregnancy and the days leading up to a period. These can include crying spells and feeling irritable, anxious, or sad.

These symptoms of PMS typically occur before menstruation begins. However, if mood changes persist and a person misses their period, this may suggest pregnancy.

According to Dr. Marta Perez, an obstetrician and gynecologist at Washington University School of Medicine, "Each individual person responds differently to their own hormones, so it's really tough to predict how someone's hormones and mood are connected." She adds that "feeling more emotional, more tearful, and noticing bigger changes in emotional swings are the trends I hear discussed."

During PMS, you may be irritable and feel a bit grouchy. You may also have crying spells and feel anxious. These symptoms typically go away after your period starts. However, if you feel sad, overwhelmed, hopeless, or lack energy for two weeks or more, you could be depressed, and it is important to talk to your doctor.

If you are pregnant, you can have mood changes that last until you give birth. You are more likely to be emotional during pregnancy. You may be ecstatic and excited, looking forward to the new member of your family. You may also have moments of sadness and cry more easily.

As with PMS, these symptoms can also indicate depression. If you are concerned about your symptoms and think you might be depressed, be sure to talk to your doctor. Depression during pregnancy is common and can be treated.

If you are experiencing mood swings or emotional changes that are affecting your day-to-day life, it is important to reach out to your doctor. They can help you understand and manage your symptoms and discuss potential treatment options.

Fatigue and tiredness

PMS

Fatigue is one of the most common PMS symptoms, usually caused by a lack of serotonin. Your serotonin levels may fluctuate before your period, leading to a major dip in your energy levels, which can also affect your mood.

PMS fatigue is often linked to sleep issues caused by physical premenstrual symptoms such as bloating, cramping, and headaches. Your body temperature also tends to increase before your period, which can make it more difficult to sleep.

Pregnancy

Fatigue during pregnancy is very common, particularly during the first and third trimesters. It is usually caused by hormonal changes and the physical demands of creating and pumping extra blood to supply your baby with nutrients and oxygen.

During the third trimester, fatigue is often caused by your growing baby bump, pregnancy insomnia, and other symptoms such as heartburn, backache, and restless leg syndrome. The stress of having a baby and the additional responsibilities that come with it can also contribute to fatigue.

What to do about it

If you're feeling fatigued, it's important to listen to your body and get the rest you need. Here are some tips to help you cope with fatigue:

• Create a healthy bedtime routine, especially in the days leading up to your period or during pregnancy.
• Focus on foods with less sugar and eat a healthy, balanced diet.
• Prioritize exercise, as a moderate amount of aerobic exercise can help boost your energy levels.
• Try Chinese medicine, such as herbal remedies or acupuncture.
• Keep your bedroom cool to help you fall asleep and stay asleep.
• Stay hydrated by drinking at least 8 glasses of water per day.
• Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or journaling.

Nausea and vomiting

Nausea during PMS can be caused by hormonal and chemical changes that occur during the menstrual cycle. The body releases chemicals called prostaglandins, which can create hormonal changes, and some women are more sensitive to these changes than others.

The most common cause of menstrual nausea is dysmenorrhea, or extremely painful menstrual cramps. This can be primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is the result of uterine contractions caused by increased prostaglandins, while secondary dysmenorrhea is caused by another condition, such as endometriosis.

Other causes of nausea during PMS include premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). PMDD is a severe form of PMS that affects about 5% of women and can lead to reduced serotonin levels, causing intense emotional symptoms.

The exact cause of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy is unknown, but it is believed to be a mix of physical and chemical changes. It may be caused by increased pregnancy hormones, blood pressure fluctuations, or changes in metabolism.

In rare cases, nausea and vomiting during pregnancy can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as hyperemesis gravidarum, which affects about 1% of pregnant women and often requires hospitalization.

Treatment Options

There are a variety of treatment options available for nausea and vomiting, depending on the underlying cause. Over-the-counter medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen can help with pain and nausea. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of antidepressants that can also be helpful, but they may cause nausea as a side effect.

For nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, vitamin B6 is often prescribed as a first-line treatment. Doxylamine, an over-the-counter sleep aid, can also be prescribed in combination with vitamin B6 to reduce symptoms by up to 70%. Dietary changes, such as eating several small meals a day and avoiding spicy and fatty foods, can also help manage nausea.

Changes in appetite

During PMS, you may crave chocolate, carbohydrates, sugars, sweets, or salty foods. These cravings are usually less intense when compared to pregnancy cravings.

Pregnancy cravings can be highly specific, and you may be uninterested in other foods. You may also develop an aversion to certain smells and tastes, even ones you once liked. These effects can last throughout pregnancy.

Pregnancy hunger usually starts and peaks in the second trimester. This is because many women are getting over morning sickness and the baby's growth is increasing. During this time, women typically need to consume 300 more calories per day than they did before they were pregnant. In the third trimester, this number increases to 500 additional calories per day.

If you are concerned that your hunger may be caused by something other than PMS or pregnancy, or if you are worried that it may not be healthy for you or your baby, it is recommended that you schedule an appointment with a doctor or obstetrician.

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