Cramps Before Period

Cramps before period, is one of the reasons why women dread and hate "that time of the month"! Well, why do they happen? Let's learn about them, shall we? Read on.
Cramps Before Period
Cramps before period can be very torturous. I know many women who love the fact that they are women, except on those days of the month. I strongly believe that it is the cramping that makes the period more dreadful than it really is. I am a woman. To all you women who have cramps before period, I know what you go through. You are not alone. So let's try to understand this phenomenon. There are a few questions that I find many girls and women asking. Let's get a solution to them!

Why Do I Get Cramps Before Period Starts?
Well, the body basically releases a whole lot of menstrual fluid from the body. This causes added stress in the abdominal, and back muscles. This causes them to cramp up. More so, this pain often spreads to the thighs as well, Also, effects of the cramping up of the muscles. Read more on lower abdominal pains and cramps and how to relieve menstrual cramps.

Are Cramps Before Period Related to Pregnancy?
God I hope not! Cramps before period is normal. All women go through it at some point of time. Many women have stated that when they conceived, they experienced cramping in the stomach and back before the period dates. However, that is not conclusive evidence to say that cramps before period is a sign of pregnancy. Nonetheless, it has been seen that in case of complex pregnancies, women tend to not only experience really bad cramps, but (what they consider) periods too. So in case you are doubtful about it, it is best to take a pregnancy test. Read more on can you be pregnant and still have a period.

This Month I had the Cramps Before Period but no Period. What do I do?
There is a chance that you may be pregnant. So, if you have had intercourse at any point of time during your cycle (even your safe dates) it is best to take a pregnancy test. If you are going for the home pregnancy tests, then take about 3, as they are not always reliable. If you don't have an active sex life, then the best bet would be to go to a gynecologist and get yourself checked. Missing a period, but getting cramps anyways is not normal. It could be a sign that you have health complications. The best bet is to get it checked out at the earliest. It is also best to know how long do periods last, to be in control of your menstrual cycle. Also read about cramps in early pregnancy.

I Have Heard that Cramps Before Period on the Pill are really bad. Is that true?
Yes and no. If you are on the pill, you are putting a tad bit more stress on your body anyways. As such, how your body reacts to the added stress cannot be guaranteed. Many people have normal cramps before period when on birth control pills. Some women have said that since they went on the pill, their cramps seem to have "disappeared". Some women, like you heard, experience really bad cramps before period. So, it cannot be deciphered definitely. However, it is best to be prepared for the worst, so all surprises will be pleasant, right?

We had a Slight 'Mishap'. I am Getting my Cramps before Period, Does that Mean No Pregnancy?
Ok missy! This is a little bit too early to start the "no pregnancy celebrations". Wait till your due date. If you get your period, then there is a possibility that you are not pregnant. If the delay goes beyond 5 days, you need to get a pregnancy test done. However, my personal opinion says that you should get a pregnancy test done right away. Just to make sure that you are in time to take any added steps required. Next time you have a "mishap", make sure you pop an emergency contraceptive pill within 72 hours. That should help your mind be at peace.

Cramps before your period is due, seems to make you want to get a sex change operation at times, right? But this is probably not entirely because it is very painful, but because it is more uncomfortable and annoying than the menstruation, itself. But sista, let me tell you cramps before period is normal. So, take it in your stride. After all, it only proves that we women are stronger. Besides, if we can handle the pain in the neck men, then the cramps should be a cake walk, right? This is where I sign off! Take care!

By Rashida Khilawala
Published: 11/12/2009
 
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