The health experts warn that some pain is not normal
Health experts are warning people that if they have stomach pain without a period, they may need to talk to their GP or call the NHS 111 number. Boots has said that it’s key people read up on their symptoms and understand what the cause could be, and if they can’t, to seek help as “it could be your body’s way of trying to tell you that there’s an underlying medical condition or health issue, so it’s important you don’t ignore these signals”.
Endometriosis
A reason for your cramps without a period could be down to a condition called endometriosis. This is where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside of the womb, such as in the ovaries, the fallopian tubes and the tissue lining the pelvis. This can cause painful cramps, similar to your period. This pain is usually worse during your period. Please read What is endometriosis via Endometriosis ULK here for more information.
Common symptoms include:
- Pelvic pain
- Painful periods that interfere with everyday life
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Pain during or after sex
- Painful bowel movements/when having a poo
- Pain when urinating/peeing
- Difficulty getting pregnant – up to 70% of those with endometriosis will be able to get pregnant naturally
- Fatigue, with one or more of the above symptom
Ovulation
Ovulation occurs when an egg is released from the ovary. This can cause slight discomfort around 14 days before your period. It may feel like a dull pain or sharp twinges and last a few minutes to a few days. It also may only affect one side of your tummy, depending on which ovary releases an egg.
Ovarian cysts and cancer
You may have something called an ovarian cyst, which is a sac usually filled with fluid. Often harmless, some can pose a bigger risk and you will experience dull or sharp pain. If the cyst bursts or twists, it can cause sudden, very severe, pain. If this happens, you may also have symptoms like bloating and pain during sex. But it is important to ask for an urgent GP appointment or call NHS 111 if:
- You have sudden, severe pelvic pain
- You have pain in your tummy, you feel sick or are being sick
When it comes to ovarian cancer, main symptoms include:
- Persistent bloating
- Increased abdominal size
- Persistent cramps, pelvic pain and tummy pain
- Changes in your bowel habits that you can’t explain
- Feeling full quickly and having difficulty eating
- Needing to wee more regularly
Having these symptoms doesn’t mean you have cancer, but it is always worth getting checked out to catch it early.
Pregnancy
Whilst it may be nothing to worry about, if you have concerns, talk to your midwife. The health experts explain that “cramping in pregnancy might be where your womb is stretching or growing. In early pregnancy, some women might describe this as being very similar to period pain”.
Ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilised egg implants itself outside the womb, usually in one of the fallopian tubes. If stuck, it means it won’t develop into a baby and it can be dangerous for your health.
Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy include:
- Bleeding from your vagina which tends to be different to a regular period. This bleeding often starts and stops and it might be dark brown and watery
- Pain in your shoulder tip (where your shoulder ends and your arm begins). It isn’t known why this happens but if you experience this, it’s important to get medical advice
- Discomfort when going to the toilet
- Stomach pain, which is typically down one side, this could be suddenly or gradually
The experts caution in some cases, an ectopic pregnancy can rupture. Signs of a rupture can include:
- Feeling dizzy
- Feeling sick
- Fainting
- A sharp intense pain in your tummy
“Make sure to call 999 for an ambulance or go to A&E if you have any of these symptoms,” they warn.
IUD and IUS
You can have cramps and no period if you have the intrauterine system (IUS) or intrauterine device (IUD). The IUS is a form of hormonal contraception which is inserted inside the womb to stop pregnancy. The non-hormonal version called an IUD. If you’ve recently had it fitted, you may have cramps for three to six months after you’ve had an IUD fitted. But if you have pain that last longer, see a GP, warns Flo.