7 Reasons You Are Suffering From Cramps Apart From Periods

Most women who have begun menstruating can tell you they’ve experienced period pain at least once in their lives.

Typically referred to as cramps, menstrual pain gets its name from the spasmodic, contracting nature of the discomfort.

Of course, there are a few fortunate women who go through their periods without any pain or cramping at all — and the rest of us can’t help but feel a little envious!

For some, the cramps can be so intense that they have to rely on strong painkillers just to get through the day.

It’s no surprise, then, that many women dread that time of the month, simply because they don’t want to deal with the pain.

Menstrual cramps occur when the uterus contracts to shed its lining, and these contractions can restrict blood flow to the area — causing pain.

Now, there are various types of pain people experience in everyday life — joint pain, stomach aches, headaches, back pain, and more.

These aches can stem from numerous causes, such as calcium deficiency, arthritis, aging, migraines, gas, indigestion, injuries, medication side effects, or even ulcers.

Interestingly, many women sometimes feel pain similar to menstrual cramps even when they aren’t on their period.

So, what causes those cramps when menstruation isn’t to blame?

Here are some surprising reasons behind cramp-like pain — take a look.

# Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a digestive disorder that causes recurring bouts of diarrhoea and constipation. Since IBS makes the gut more sensitive, it often leads to cramping and discomfort in the lower abdominal area.

# Muscle Strain

Straining or pulling a muscle during physical activity — especially in the abdominal region — can cause soreness and cramps. These cramps often mimic the sensation of menstrual pain.

# Constipation

When bowel movements slow down and stools become hard, constipation occurs. This can put pressure on the lower abdomen, leading to cramp-like pain that feels similar to period discomfort.

# Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune response targets the gastrointestinal tract, leading to ulcers, diarrhea, and sometimes blood in the stools. Cramping in the lower abdomen is a common symptom, and because this condition is serious, it requires prompt medical attention.

# Ovulation

Around 14 days before menstruation, ovulation occurs — the release of an egg from the ovary. For some women, this natural process can trigger mild to moderate abdominal cramping.

# Diverticulitis

Diverticula are small pouches that can form in the lining of the digestive tract. When these become inflamed — often due to poor dietary habits — it leads to diverticulitis, a condition that commonly causes lower abdominal pain and cramping.

# Gas

Gas buildup in the digestive system, a result of indigestion or poor eating habits, can cause bloating and sharp abdominal cramps. This is one of the most common and easily overlooked causes of period-like pain.