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Period Pains But No Periods: What Is The Real Reason?

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Period Pains But No Periods: What Is The Real Reason?

Experiencing cramps, also known as period pains during your menstrual cycle is quite common. Usually, it's a sign that you are about to get your periods. However, sometimes you would experience cramps but no period. It's because such cramps could be a reason for some underlying conditions which may include cysts, pregnancy, or even a pelvic inflammatory disease.

As the pain caused by these conditions is quite similar to that of cramps, it becomes a little difficult to spot the difference. This pain might leave you confused and concerned. Thus, to put your mind at ease, here are some reasons why you might be experiencing period cramps but no period, followed up with when you need to consult a doctor.

Reasons For Experiencing Cramps But No Period
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Reasons For Experiencing Cramps But No Period

Pregnancy Pain
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Pregnancy Pain

If you are experiencing period pains but no period, it might lead you to think "Could I be pregnant?". Generally, cramps, no period and white discharge are considered to be some of the signs of pregnancy. Typically speaking, in the early stages of pregnancy, women often experience mild uterine cramps which are similar to period pains. These cramps are known as 'implantation pain' which occur when fertilised eggs implant in the uterus. Apart from missed periods and cramping in the lower abdomen, there could be light spotting. But to make sure whether you are pregnant or not, it's always best to take a pregnancy test.

Ectopic Pregnancy
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Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilised egg (the baby) grows outside the uterus, mostly in the fallopian tubes. In such a scenario, you would experience a mild period-like pain but no period. This would be followed by sharp, stabbing-like pain in your lower abdomen which sometimes can be felt in the back and even in the shoulders. But before these cramps, you would witness early pregnancy symptoms like nausea, sore breasts and tiredness.

Endometriosis
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Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which a tissue, similar to that found in the uterus, begins to grow outside the uterus in different locations. It can cause painful period-like cramps in the lower abdomen and in the back, at any time of the month. This condition can also lead to infertility, painful bowel movement and pain during sex if penetrated deeply.

Ovulation
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Ovulation

Ovulation is the most common reason for experiencing cramps without periods. It naturally occurs in 10 - 14 days of your period wherein your ovaries release unfertilised eggs. During this, you might experience slight pain in your lower belly called "mittelschmerz," which means middle pain. Other symptoms like vaginal discharge and spotting can also be experienced during your ovulation period. To help be comfortable in this time, Always has got a range of panty liners devised with fast-absorption technology. Select from flexible designs like the Always Comfort Protect to Always Extra Protect which has odour neutralising properties.

Ovarian Cyst
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Ovarian Cyst

Another reason for experiencing period pain but no period could be the result of an ovarian cyst. Broadly speaking, a cyst is a sac filled with fluid that can form in the ovaries. Chances are these could rupture and lead to sudden, sharp pain or cramps in the lower abdomen.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
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Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an inflammation of internal sex organs caused by bacterial infection. It can lead to abnormal vaginal discharge and cause pain on both sides of your lower belly. One might experience this pain at any time of the month. PID can affect the parts that help one conceive including fallopian tubes, womb, vagina, ovaries and cervix. In such a case, you must see a doctor immediately.

Ovarian Cancer
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Ovarian Cancer

This could be a rare cause of the pain experienced in the pelvic region. At the start, it may feel like a pain caused by constipation or gas but the pain would keep pressing for a longer time. Other symptoms might include, feeling full all the time, swelling of the abdomen, and an urge to urinate.

Apart from these conditions, you might experience period-like cramps but no period due to:

  • Appendicitis
  • Interstitial cystitis
  • Indigestion
  • Pelvic-floor muscle dysfunction
When To See A Doctor
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When To See A Doctor

Even though there could be natural reasons as to why you are experiencing cramps but no period, getting yourself checked is always an ideal plan. Consider the following things before you head to the clinic.

  • The severity of your cramps
  • The occurrence and longevity of your cramps
  • Other symptoms apart from the cramps

In case you experience the following symptoms, you must rush to a doctor immediately:

  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • Pain in the back, arm or chest
  • High fever and vomiting
  • Severe, worsening pelvic or abdominal pain
  • Skin turning yellow
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Weight loss

Your doctor will be able to give you the right treatment and guidance. If needed, he might also run a few tests to get all the doubts cleared.

Read more about period symptoms, causes of irregular periods and what causes period pains.

FAQs

1. Why do I have period cramps but no period?


If you have period pain but no period, there could be many reasons for it. Some of the most common ones include pregnancy pain, ectopic pregnancy, endometriosis, ovulation, ovarian cyst, pelvic inflammatory disease and ovarian cancer among others.

2. I have period pains but no period, could I be pregnant?


Many wonder when they have period pains but no period, “Could I be pregnant?” Typically, cramps, no period and white discharge are some of the early signs of pregnancy. Also, in the early stages of pregnancy, some women experience cramps during implantation bleeding, which occurs when a fertilised egg gets attached in the uterus. It is best to take a pregnancy test to be certain.

3. Why do I have side cramps but no period?


When you have period pains but no period, one of the most common reasons is ovulation. It typically occurs between the 10th and 14th day of your menstrual cycle. During these days, you may have experience some spotting along with side cramps but no period. Typically, ovulation pain can be felt on the sides. To manage any spotting along with cramps, you can use Always panty liners that are discrete and do a good job of soaking the discharge.

Disclaimer

Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; Always pads prioritize safety, protection and comfort of its consumers.