Symptoms and signs of PMS may be similar to those of early pregnancy. Symptoms of early pregnancy can be similar to those experienced by women just prior to the menstrual period.At times, it can be confusing to distinguish between early pregnancy and an approaching menstrual period. Women wonder if they may have period symptoms while they are actually pregnant or they may be unsure if they can tell the difference between the cramps of PMS or an early pregnancy.True menstrual bleeding does not occur in pregnancy, although many women experience some light bleeding during the first weeks of pregnancy. In particular, light bleeding around the time of implantation of the fertilized egg is common and occurs at about the time of the expected period.Common symptoms of PMS and early pregnancy include breast swelling, enlargement, pain, discomfort, or tenderness.Early pregnancy symptoms like nausea and vomiting are not common in PMS.The only way to tell if you are pregnant is to take a pregnancy test if your period is late or absent.