Menstrual Cramps

Check Your Symptoms

If you answer yes to any of the following questions, click on the "Yes" in front of the question for information about how soon to see a health professional.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

If you have any of the following symptoms, evaluate those symptoms first:

• You are pregnant and have cramps: Go to the topic Pregnancy-Related Problems.
• Unexpected vaginal bleeding: Go to the topic Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding.
• Abdominal pain: Go to the topic Abdominal Pain, Age 11 and Younger or Abdominal Pain, Age 12 and Older.

Yes	Do you think you are pregnant?
Yes	Has sudden pain occurred with menstrual bleeding?
Yes	Do you think your menstrual cramps may be caused by sexual abuse?
Yes	Do you have menstrual cramps and a fever?
Yes	Do you have an intrauterine device (IUD) in place?
Yes	Do cramps begin 5 to 7 days before your period starts or continue after your period stops?
Yes	Have you had a change in the pattern of your menstrual cramps?

Other Symptoms to Watch For

Do you have the following symptom?

• A vaginal problem: Go to the topic Vaginal Problems.

If a visit to a health professional is not needed immediately, see the Home Treatment section for self-care information.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: July 11, 2007
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
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