If we eat something bad, then our stomach starts hurting. In any form, due to poor gut health, there is a pain in the stomach. On the other hand, there is a pain in the stomach during or even before the menstrual period, which we colloquially call period cramps. Sometimes it is difficult to differentiate between the two types of pain. However, there are some tips based on which the difference between period cramps and poop cramps or normal abdominal pain can be recognized.
Gut health is also affected during periods.
It is common for gut health to be affected during the menstrual period. There are many changes in hormones during this time. An imbalance in hormones also causes the microbiome to become unbalanced. Having too much estrogen in the body can lead to stomach-related problems. It can also cause bloating, cramps, loose motion, heavy flow, and mood swings.
Here are 5 tips based on which the difference between period cramps and normal abdominal pain can be recognized
1 Pain during periods
Sometimes too much air goes into the intestine along with the food due to eating too much fibrous food or eating fast food. Apart from these, gas is also formed by eating extra gas-producing foods like lentils, etc. This gas can cause a feeling of severe pain when it moves into the intestines. This type of abdominal pain does not occur in one place but can occur in different areas of the abdomen. You will feel a lump or sensation in the abdomen. Whereas in period cramps, there is constant pain in one place. You feel a tightness.
2 Pain near the anus in general stomach pain
In general abdominal pain, there is pain near the anus. Image: Shutterstock This causes irregular bowel movements. If the gas is not able to pass easily, then the pain starts feeling near the anus. This condition usually gets better within a few hours. Appendicitis or gallbladder stones can cause extremely intense and unbearable pain. While the pain caused by cramps during periods is more in the lower back.
3 More pain and aches in period cramp
Pain during periods can be more than normal pain. Cramps are felt throughout the period. The pain caused by gas or indigestion or constipation usually comes on rapidly and is relieved once defecation is done.
4 Back pain and thigh pain in period cramp
When you feel pain due to period cramps, it's like someone has stabbed you with a sharp, sharp weapon. They can be continuous or more or less. The pain can travel from the lower back to the upper legs and thighs.
5 Stomach pain may be associated with period cramps (period cramps and stomach pain are interconnected)
It is possible that both period cramps and abdominal pain can occur together. The changes in hormone levels that occur during menstruation are meant to expel the uterine lining. At the same time, a drop in progesterone level leads to a gassy feeling and constipation or loose motions due to the digestive system being affected. It hurts even more.
