Symptoms

Symptoms of menstrual cramps include:

• Throbbing or cramping pain in your lower abdomen that can be intense
• Pain that starts 1 to 3 days before your period, peaks 24 hours after the onset of your period and subsides in 2 to 3 days
• Dull, continuous ache
• Pain that radiates to your lower back and thighs

Some women also have:

• Nausea
• Loose stools
• Headache
• Dizziness

When to see a doctor

See your doctor if:

• Menstrual cramps disrupt your life every month
• Your symptoms progressively worsen
• You just started having severe menstrual cramps after age 25