Let’s be honest: it can be hard to tell if you’re pregnant when some period symptoms are similar to pregnancy symptoms. If you think you might be pregnant and live in Springfield, we at First Step want to help you determine with certainty if you’re experiencing a monthly period or are pregnant.
Overlapping Symptoms
There are numerous overlapping periods and pregnancy symptoms. The reason for this is that during both your period and pregnancy, your hormones fluctuate. Overlapping symptoms include but are not limited to:
Cramping
If you’re on your period, the cramping occurs because the uterus is preparing to and will expel its lining. If you’re pregnant, you may cramp due to your uterus expanding.
Breast Changes
If your breasts are tender, swollen, sensitive, heavy, or you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in them, these are all symptoms linked to pregnancy and period.
Fatigue
Have you ever noticed before your period, you can feel lethargic with little to no energy? This symptom can be associated with the onset of your period or pregnancy. Period fatigue can be caused by hormonal changes, low iron, a dip in your blood glucose, or disturbed sleep. Pregnancy fatigue occurs most often because of doubling the amount of blood production and hormonal changes. Both the increase in blood and the production of progesterone causes you to feel fatigued during your first trimester.
Headaches
When it comes to your period, a headache can be triggered by fluctuating hormonal levels, specifically estrogen and progesterone. The same can be true for first-trimester headaches, but the increased blood flow can also cause headaches for pregnant women.
Appetite Changes
Although food cravings are commonly associated with pregnant women, women who are experiencing PMS or on their period may also experience food cravings. Here is a hint: chocolate. Additionally, food aversions, along with nausea, can happen to women who are pregnant and women who are on their period.
Pregnancy Symptoms
There are two symptoms unique to pregnancy. They are:
Missed Period
This one is easy to spot if you experience regular periods. However, if you don’t it can be hard to know. A normal menstrual cycle is from 21 to 35 days. If you have gone past that timeframe, you have missed your period. It is possible to skip a period due to high levels of stress or drastic weight loss. However, if you have been sexually active, you may be experiencing a pregnancy.
Nipple Change
Although your breasts will get sore during your period, your nipples typically remain the same. However, if you’re pregnant, your areolas become darker. Keep in mind that nipple changes typically occur in the second trimester.
How You Can Be Certain You’re Pregnant or Not
In order to be certain if your period is late or you’re experiencing a pregnancy, you must take a pregnancy test followed by an ultrasound. An ultrasound is the only way to know without a doubt if you’re pregnant. Additionally, an ultrasound can detect if the fetus is in the right position if you’re pregnant with twins, how far along you’re in your pregnancy, and if there are any abnormalities with your pregnancy.
Don’t wait; put your mind at ease.