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7 Surprising Reasons For Cramps Apart From Periods!

Want to know what are the other causes for those horrible cramps, if not your periods?

By Chandana Rao

Most women, who have started menstruating, can tell you that they have experienced period pain, at least once, somewhere down the line.

Usually period pain or menstrual pain is referred to as cramps, due to the type of pain experiences, which is spasmodic in nature.

There are a few lucky women out there, who never experience any pain or cramps, during their periods!

Well, the rest of us who do, can feel quite envious of them, which is rather natural!

causes of cramps in the abdomen

For some women, the period cramps can be so bad, that they have to resort to taking strong painkillers to find relief!

Many women dread that day of the month, as they obviously do not wish to experience the pain!

Menstrual cramps occur when the contractions of the uterus to shed the uterine lining obstruct the blood flow to the uterus, causing pain.

Now, there are many types of body pain that people may experience from time to time.

Some of the common types of pain are joint pain, stomach pain, headaches, back pain, etc.

Pain can have a number of reasons, such as calcium deficiency, arthritis, age-related problems, migraine, gas, indigestion, injury, side effects of certain medications, ulcers, etc.

Many a times, women can experience pain, which may feel very similar to menstrual cramps; however; they may not even be on their period!

So, here are some surprising causes for cramps, which do not include periods; have a look.

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition in which people experience frequent diarrhoea and constipation! As this condition makes the gut sensitive, it can cause cramping in the lower belly area.

2. Muscle Pull

2. Muscle Pull

Many women experience a muscle pull while exercising or doing any kind of physical activity, in which the abdominal muscles are over-stretched, resulting in soreness and cramps, which is again similar to menstrual cramps.

3. Constipation

3. Constipation

Constipation is a condition in which the stools harden and bowel movement becomes slow, making it difficult for a person to pass stools. Constipation can also cause cramps in the lower abdomen.

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease is an autoimmune disease in which certain harmful antibodies affect the gastro-intestinal tract, causing ulcers, loose motion and blood in stools. One of the side effects of this condition is lower abdominal cramps. This is a rather serious condition and immediate medical help must be sought!

5. Ovulation

5. Ovulation

Ovulation is a process in which, a woman releases ova or eggs from her ovaries, once a month. This process typically occurs before 14 days of the period due date, of a woman. Ovulation can also cause cramps in many women.

6. Diverticulitis

6. Diverticulitis

There are pouches known as the diverticula, in the lining of your digestive tract. In some cases, due to unhealthy eating habits, the diverticula gets inflamed, leading to a condition known as diverticulitis. People affected by this condition also experience lower abdominal cramps.

7. Gas

7. Gas

Gastritis is one of the most common conditions experienced by many people. The accumulation of excess gas in the abdominal area can also cause cramps.

Read more about: stomach periods