Schedule An Appointment

Symptom Checker

Menstrual Cramps

Menstrual cramps are pain in the lower abdomen or back that occurs around a menstrual period. The pain may be aching, cramping or throbbing and can come with nausea, headache or loose stools.

Most cramps are caused by prostaglandins that make the uterus contract during menstruation. Endometriosis and other pelvic conditions are less common causes of severe or persistent cramps.

Call a nurse All symptoms

AAP Guide to Menstrual Cramps

The AAP guide below explains what can help cramps and which patterns deserve further evaluation.

AAP Symptom CheckerPeriod cramps

If the Symptom Checker does not appear here

It is the American Academy of Pediatrics’ own tool and it loads from their site, so a lost connection or a content blocker leaves this space empty. Open it on HealthyChildren.org with the button below, or call your office and a nurse will answer.

Open on HealthyChildren.org

Symptom CheckerPeriod cramps New tab

When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Cramps are severe or repeatedly interfere with school or normal activities.
  • Pain is getting worse from one cycle to the next.
  • Pain occurs between periods.
  • Periods are very heavy or fever occurs with the pain.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Severe sudden pelvic pain comes with fainting or severe weakness.
  • Bleeding is extremely heavy.
  • Pregnancy is possible and severe pain develops.
  • You think there is a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on growing up

See all 164 symptoms