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Perimenopause

Pregnancy or Menopause: Symptoms and How to Confirm

Zoe Kaplan
Zoe Kaplan

Pregnancy and menopause can have similar symptoms, so how can you know which one you’re going through? Here’s everything you need to know to tell the difference.

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Jul 20, 2024
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Pregnancy and menopause can have similar symptoms, so how can you know which one you’re going through? Here’s everything you need to know to tell the difference.

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Pregnancy and menopause can have similar symptoms, so how can you know which one you’re going through? Here’s everything you need to know to tell the difference.

If you’re both going through perimenopause and trying to get pregnant, irregular cycles and other symptoms can be especially confusing: is it pregnancy or menopause?

Especially when pregnancy and menopause have overlapping symptoms, it’s especially important to learn the key similarities and differences between the two.

Here’s what you need to know about symptoms and testing so you can figure out if it’s pregnancy or menopause.

Can you get pregnant during perimenopause?

First: is it even really possible that someone could be debating whether they’re going through pregnancy or menopause?

Yes! It’s possible to get pregnant during perimenopause, the time leading up to menopause. During perimenopause, your ovaries still release eggs, albeit irregularly. As long as you are still having periods, even if they are irregular, there is a chance of becoming pregnant. 

>>RELATED: Perimenopause vs. Menopause: What’s the Difference?

While the chances are much lower because you’re releasing fewer eggs, usually estimated at around 5% per cycle if you’re over 40, you should use contraception if you wish to avoid pregnancy during this time.

What do pregnancy and menopause have in common?

Pregnancy and menopause are both phases that involve significant changes to your hormones. During pregnancy, for example, your progesterone increases to help ensure a healthy pregnancy. During menopause, your estrogen and progesterone have decreased from your pre-perimenopause levels. 

All of these hormonal shifts can lead to various physical, emotional, and mental symptoms.

Missed periods

Missing a period is often considered a sign of pregnancy. When you’re pregnant, you don’t get a period because of the hormonal shifts happening in your body to support the pregnancy.

Irregular periods are often one of the first signs of perimenopause, or the transition to menopause. Shifts in estrogen and progesterone during perimenopause lead to irregular cycles, including longer or shorter cycles. Menopause marks the end of your period, so you’re not exactly “missing” a period, but rather marking the end of periods in your lifetime. 

Fatigue

Feeling tired, restless, or unable to fall asleep is a common symptom of both pregnancy and menopause. In pregnancy, increases in your progesterone can contribute to fatigue.

Hormonal shifts are also to blame for fatigue in menopause, yet fatigue may also be a result of other menopause symptoms. For example, hot flashes and night sweats can make it hard to fall and stay asleep, contributing to overall fatigue.

Mood swings

Changes in estrogen and progesterone, which happen during both pregnancy and menopause, can lead to mood swings. During pregnancy, it’s more likely that your mood swings will manifest in feeling weepy, angry, or generally emotionally sensitive. During menopause, your mood swings may feel more like feelings of irritability or feeling low energy. 

Weight changes

Weight gain is often a natural part of pregnancy as your stomach and baby grows. People at a normal weight before pregnancy tend to gain up to 25 to 35 pounds gradually while they’re pregnant.

Weight changes are common during menopause, too, and they may also be gradual. During menopause, hormonal shifts can affect your metabolism, making it harder to maintain your weight with the same eating and exercise habits.

Breast tenderness

Breast tenderness in pregnancy and menopause is a result of hormonal shifts, and both symptoms can cause general sensitivity and discomfort. 

During pregnancy, your breasts may feel fuller and heavier. You may also see some visible changes to your areolas—becoming darker and larger—and to your nipples, which may be more prominent.

During menopause, your breasts will likely feel more achy.

Pregnancy vs. menopause symptoms

While some symptoms between pregnancy and menopause overlap, there are distinct differences between pregnancy and menopause symptoms that can help you differentiate between the two.

Pregnancy symptoms

Some symptoms that you may only experience during pregnancy include:

  • Nausea and vomiting: Commonly known as morning sickness, these symptoms are prevalent in early pregnancy. Despite the name, you may not feel this way only in the morning.
  • Frequent urination: Increased urination is a result of hormonal changes and the growing uterus pressing on the bladder.
  • Food cravings or aversions: Sudden changes in appetite or specific food cravings.

Menopause symptoms

Some symptoms that are commonly associated with menopause, and not with pregnancy, include:

  • Hot flashes: Sudden feelings of heat that can occur during the day or night.
  • Night sweats: Hot flashes that happen during sleep, leading to excessive sweating.
  • Vaginal dryness: Decreased estrogen levels can cause dryness and discomfort.

>>RELATED: What Is Vaginal Atrophy? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

How to know whether it’s pregnancy or menopause

Determining whether you are pregnant or entering menopause can be challenging due to the overlapping symptoms, but there are a few other ways to confirm what you’re experiencing.

Track your hormones

Tracking your hormones can give you a better sense of the patterns and changes in your specific hormone levels. For example, tracking your progesterone over time can show you whether an increase in progesterone may indicate a fluctuation (likely perimenopause or menopause) or sustained, high levels (likely indicating pregnancy).

Take a pregnancy test

If you suspect that you might be pregnant, taking a home pregnancy test can be an accurate way to figure out if you’re pregnant—as long as you ensure you’re taking the test at the right time.

While a pregnancy test may show up positive earlier than two weeks after ovulation, it’s recommended to wait a week after your missed period.

>>RELATED: You’ve Reached 14 DPO—Is It Time to Take a Pregnancy Test?

Pregnancy or menopause: the bottom line

Getting pregnant during perimenopause is less common, but still likely, which means it’s possible to wonder whether you’re going through pregnancy or menopause. While these two life stages have some similar symptoms—like missed periods, fatigue, and breast tenderness—they also have distinct ones that can help you tell the difference.

Of course, you don’t need to rely just on what you feel to figure out what’s happening in your body. The best ways to confirm whether it’s pregnancy or menopause is taking a closer look at what hormones are changing and taking a pregnancy test.

About the author

Zoe Kaplan
Zoe Kaplan is a writer and content strategist passionate about creating content that helps people navigate the world a little more easily. Zoe has worked across verticals, from women's career development to reproductive health. You can check out more of her work at zoeakaplan.com.

Sources

perimenopause-periods
Should I still see my gynecologist if my periods are just "weird" but not painful?
Yes. Annual visits remain important during perimenopause. Your provider can help determine if your "weird" periods are typical perimenopause changes or something requiring attention. They can also discuss management options to improve your quality of life.
perimenopause-periods
How long do irregular periods last before menopause?
Irregular perimenopause periods typically last 4 to 8 years before your final period, though this varies greatly. Some women experience irregularity for just a few months, while others have irregular periods for over a decade before reaching menopause.
perimenopause-periods
Is it normal to have two periods in one month during perimenopause?
Yes, this can happen, especially in early perimenopause when cycles shorten. You might have a 21 day cycle, meaning you could have a period at the beginning and end of the same calendar month. Track these patterns to distinguish between short cycles and abnormal bleeding.
perimenopause-periods
Why are my periods suddenly so heavy in my 40s?
Heavy perimenopause periods often result from estrogen dominance. When progesterone drops but estrogen remains high, your uterine lining builds up more than usual, causing heavier bleeding when it sheds. This is common in perimenopause but should be evaluated if it affects your daily life.
perimenopause-periods
Can I still get pregnant if my periods are irregular during perimenopause?
Yes. As long as you're having periods, even irregular ones, you may still be ovulating. Pregnancy is possible until you've gone 12 full months without any period. If you don't want to become pregnant, continue using contraception throughout perimenopause.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Can you prevent perimenopause weight gain completely?
While you may not prevent all weight changes during perimenopause, you can minimize gain through proactive strategies. Starting strength training before perimenopause, maintaining consistent sleep habits, and managing stress can help your body adapt to hormonal changes more smoothly. Remember, some body changes during this transition are normal and healthy.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
At what age does perimenopause weight gain typically start?
Perimenopause weight gain can begin in your late 30s or early 40s, often coinciding with the first hormonal changes. Many women notice gradual changes starting 5 to 10 years before their final period. The timing varies greatly based on genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Does everyone gain the same amount during perimenopause?
No. Perimenopause weight gain varies significantly. Some women gain 5 pounds, others 20 or more, and some maintain their weight. Factors include genetics, starting weight, activity level, stress, sleep quality, and how dramatically hormones fluctuate. Your experience is unique to your body.
Is perimenopause weight gain different from regular aging weight gain?
Yes. While metabolism naturally slows with age, perimenopause weight gain has distinct characteristics. The hormonal shifts cause fat redistribution to the midsection, even if overall weight doesn't change dramatically. This abdominal weight gain pattern is specifically linked to declining estrogen and progesterone, not just aging.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Will the weight come off after menopause?
Perimenopause weight gain often stabilizes after menopause when hormones level out, but the weight doesn't automatically disappear. The metabolic and body composition changes that occur during perimenopause tend to persist. However, with consistent healthy habits, weight management becomes more predictable post menopause than during the fluctuating perimenopause years.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I take progesterone if I'm breastfeeding?
Yes, progesterone is generally safe while breastfeeding and doesn't significantly affect milk supply. However, always discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any hormone supplementation while nursing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Is it safe to take progesterone throughout pregnancy?
Yes, when prescribed by your healthcare provider. Progesterone supplementation in early pregnancy is safe and can reduce miscarriage risk in women with low progesterone or a history of pregnancy loss. Most providers continue supplementation through the first trimester (weeks 10-12) when the placenta takes over.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can progesterone supplementation cause weight gain?
Progesterone can cause temporary water retention and bloating, which may show up as a few pounds on the scale, but it doesn't cause true fat weight gain. Most women don't experience significant weight changes from progesterone supplementation.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I switch from pills to suppositories or vice versa?
Yes, but only under your doctor's guidance. The dosing and timing may need adjustment when switching between forms since they're absorbed differently. Never switch on your own, especially if you're pregnant or undergoing fertility treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Will progesterone supplementation delay my period?
Yes, progesterone keeps the uterine lining intact, so if you're not pregnant and continue taking progesterone, your period will be delayed. Once you stop taking it, your period should start within 2-10 days. If you are pregnant, progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy and you won't get a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Should I take progesterone pills orally or vaginally?
For fertility and pregnancy support, vaginal progesterone is usually preferred because it delivers higher concentrations directly to the uterus. For perimenopause or general hormone balance, oral progesterone often works well and is more convenient. Your doctor will recommend the best route based on your specific needs.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
When should I start taking progesterone after ovulation?
Typically, progesterone supplementation for luteal phase support starts 2-3 days after ovulation (confirmed by LH surge or temperature rise). Your doctor will give you specific timing based on your protocol. Some women start immediately after a positive ovulation test.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
What's better: progesterone cream or pills?
Pills (oral micronized progesterone) are generally more effective and reliable than creams because absorption from creams is inconsistent. For medical conditions like fertility issues, low progesterone, or HRT, prescription pills or suppositories are strongly recommended over over-the-counter creams.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
How can I tell if I have low or high progesterone?
The only definitive way to know is through hormone testing via blood tests or at-home urine tests that measure progesterone metabolites. However, symptom patterns can provide clues: anxiety and irregular periods suggest low progesterone, while bloating and extreme fatigue suggest high progesterone.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
When during my cycle should I test progesterone levels?
Test progesterone levels during the luteal phase, typically 7 days after ovulation or around day 21 of a 28-day cycle. This is when progesterone should be at its peak, making it easier to identify if levels are too low or too high.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the main differences between low and high progesterone symptoms?
Low progesterone typically causes irregular or heavy periods, anxiety, hot flashes, and sleep issues. High progesterone causes bloating, fatigue, intense breast tenderness, and depression-like mood changes. Low progesterone symptoms persist throughout your cycle, while high progesterone symptoms are most intense during the luteal phase.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
Can you have symptoms of both low and high progesterone?
Some symptoms like breast tenderness and mood changes can occur with both low and high progesterone, making it confusing. However, the timing, intensity, and accompanying symptoms differ. Hormone testing is the best way to determine which imbalance you're experiencing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can stress affect 10 DPO symptoms?
Yes, stress can worsen or mimic 10 DPO symptoms. Stress increases cortisol, which can cause cramping, fatigue, and mood changes similar to both PMS and early pregnancy. During the two-week wait, try stress-reduction techniques like gentle exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is it better to test at 10 DPO or wait?
It's better to wait until 12–14 DPO for more accurate results. Testing at 10 DPO often leads to false negatives because hCG levels may still be too low. If you absolutely can't wait, use a sensitive early detection test with first morning urine, and be prepared to retest in 2–3 days if negative.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does implantation bleeding look like at 10 DPO?
Implantation bleeding at 10 DPO is typically light pink or brown, much lighter than a period, and lasts 1–2 days. It's often just spotting when you wipe or a few drops on a panty liner. However, only 15–20% of pregnant women experience implantation bleeding—most don't have any bleeding at all.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Why am I cramping at 10 DPO?
Cramping at 10 DPO can be caused by elevated progesterone (whether you're pregnant or not), implantation (if you're pregnant), or premenstrual cramping. Unfortunately, cramping alone can't tell you if you're pregnant since progesterone causes similar symptoms in both scenarios.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What are the chances of a BFP at 10 DPO?
If you're pregnant, you have about a 50–60% chance of getting a positive test at 10 DPO. This means there's a 40–50% chance of a false negative even if you conceived. Chances improve significantly by 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What DPO is most accurate for pregnancy testing?
14 DPO (the day of your missed period) is the most accurate time to test, with 99% accuracy. 12 DPO offers 80–90% accuracy. 10 DPO has only 50–60% accuracy. For best results, wait as long as you can—ideally until 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is 10 DPO too early to test?
10 DPO is considered early for pregnancy testing. While some women get positives at 10 DPO, accuracy is only 50–60% if you're pregnant. For best results, wait until 12 DPO (80–90% accuracy) or 14 DPO/missed period (99% accuracy).
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you have implantation at 10 DPO?
Yes, implantation can still occur at 10 DPO, though 84% of women have already implanted by this point. Late implantation at 10–12 DPO is normal. If implantation happens at 10 DPO, you won't get a positive pregnancy test for another 2–3 days.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does a negative test at 10 DPO mean?
A negative test at 10 DPO does not mean you're not pregnant. It's very common to get negatives at 10 DPO even if you conceived. Your hCG levels may still be too low, or implantation may have occurred later. Wait until 12–14 DPO to retest for more accurate results.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you get a positive pregnancy test at 10 DPO?
Yes, but only about 50–60% of pregnant women will get a positive at 10 DPO. The other 40–50% have hCG levels that are still too low to detect. If you test negative at 10 DPO, wait 2–3 days and test again.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Can high progesterone cause weight gain?
Yes, elevated progesterone can cause temporary weight gain through water retention and bloating. This is a normal part of the luteal phase and early pregnancy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Does stress affect estrogen levels?
Yes, chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can suppress estrogen production and disrupt hormonal balance. Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, adequate sleep, and self-care practices helps maintain optimal estrogen levels.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
When should I consider medical treatment for low estrogen?
Consider medical intervention if natural methods don't improve symptoms after 3 months, if symptoms severely impact quality of life, if you're experiencing early menopause (before 40), or if you have fertility concerns. Hormone replacement therapy may be appropriate in these cases.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What are the signs that my estrogen is increasing?
Signs of rising estrogen include more regular menstrual cycles, reduced hot flashes, improved vaginal lubrication, better mood stability, increased energy, and improved skin elasticity. You may also notice reduced symptoms that originally indicated low estrogen.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Can exercise increase estrogen levels?
Yes, moderate exercise stimulates estrogen release and helps maintain hormonal balance. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardio weekly plus strength training twice per week. However, excessive exercise can actually lower estrogen, so balance is key.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
How long does it take to increase estrogen naturally?
With consistent dietary and lifestyle changes, you may notice improvements in symptoms within 4-8 weeks. However, significant hormonal changes typically take 2-3 months. Tracking your cycle and symptoms can help you monitor progress.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What foods increase estrogen levels naturally?
Foods high in phytoestrogens can help increase estrogen naturally. The best options include flax seeds (high in lignans), soy products (tofu, tempeh, edamame), lentils, chickpeas, whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice), and garlic. These plant compounds mimic estrogen's effects in the body.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What helps relieve hot flashes quickly?
Cool environments, layered clothing, herbal teas, and medical treatments like gabapentin or HRT may help—depending on severity. Lifestyle changes like reducing caffeine and alcohol can also provide relief.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Are there tests to confirm perimenopause?
Yes. Tests measuring estradiol, LH, and FSH levels can indicate hormonal shifts—but diagnosis is often symptom-based since hormone levels fluctuate widely during perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
How do I know it's perimenopause and not something else?
A doctor may recommend hormone testing (like LH, E3G, and PdG) and track symptom timing. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms combined with age and menstrual pattern changes.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What's the earliest age perimenopause can start?
Some women begin experiencing symptoms as early as their mid-30s, though perimenopause typically starts between ages 38-45.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Does perimenopause affect mental clarity?
Yes. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating are common during hormone fluctuations in perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What happens after the last sign of perimenopause?
After your final period, you enter postmenopause. You'll need 12 consecutive months without a period to confirm menopause. Many symptoms gradually improve, though some like vaginal dryness may persist without treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
When do perimenopause symptoms finally stop?
Some symptoms like brain fog improve after menopause, while others like hot flashes may continue for up to 10 years post-menopause. Vaginal symptoms often persist or worsen without treatment. Each person's timeline is different.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Is high progesterone a sign of pregnancy?
Yes, high progesterone is one of the earliest indicators of pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise significantly after conception to support the developing embryo and reach their peak during the third trimester.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Can you still get pregnant in late perimenopause?
Yes, you can still get pregnant during perimenopause as long as you're having periods, even if they're infrequent. Continue using birth control until you've gone 12 consecutive months without a period and have officially reached menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Do symptoms get worse before perimenopause ends?
Yes, most perimenopause symptoms intensify in the final 1-2 years before menopause. Hot flashes peak around your final period, vaginal symptoms worsen, and mood changes increase. However, brain fog typically improves in late perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
How long does late perimenopause last?
Late perimenopause typically lasts 1-3 years before your final period. However, the exact duration varies significantly from person to person. You've reached menopause after 12 consecutive months without a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the symptoms of high progesterone?
High progesterone symptoms include fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain, anxiety, depression, headaches, and food cravings. During pregnancy, you may also experience increased nipple sensitivity and muscle aches.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What are the first signs that perimenopause is ending?
The earliest signs include longer gaps between periods (60+ days), intensifying hot flashes that peak around your final period, and worsening vaginal dryness. These symptoms typically increase in late perimenopause before you reach official menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
When should I be concerned about high progesterone?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience high progesterone symptoms outside your luteal phase when not pregnant, or if symptoms include severe pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or rapid weight gain while on hormone therapy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
How do you test progesterone levels?
Progesterone can be measured through blood tests at your doctor's office or at-home urine tests that measure PdG (a progesterone metabolite). Testing is typically done during the luteal phase, about 7 days after ovulation.

About the Oova Blog:
‍Our content is developed with a commitment to high editorial standards and reliability. We prioritize referencing reputable sources and sharing where our insights come from. The Oova Blog is intended for informational purposes only and is never a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making any health decisions.

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