Ovarian cancer symptoms and signs include abdominal pain, bloating, frequent urination, and a feeling of fullness. Ovarian cancer treatment depends on the stage and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapy.
Cramps But No Period
Pelvic pain similar to a menstrual period can happen at times when no period is due or can occur because of conditions other than the monthly cycle. Sometimes it is hard to tell the exact reason for cramps that feel like a menstrual period.
The following 12 diseases and conditions are examples of situations that can cause pain or cramps when not on your period.
Ovulation
In the middle of the menstrual cycle, or about 10-14 days before your period, ovulation occurs. This is the release of an egg from a follicle within the ovary.
- Symptoms can include
- mild cramping that may be sharp or dull,
- lasting a few minutes to hours. It typically occurs on one side of the abdomen only.
Ovarian cyst
A cyst is an enclosed tissue sac filled with fluid. The ovary is a common location for cyst development.
- A small ovarian cyst typically does not cause symptoms, but if the cyst ruptures, it can cause sudden, sharp pains or cramps on one side of the lower abdomen.
- An enlarging cyst may cause dull pain or a feeling of fullness or heaviness in the lower abdomen or back.
Ovarian cancer
This is a rare cause of pain or pressure within the abdomen or pelvis.
- Ovarian cancer may not cause any symptoms, but if the cancer is large, it can cause
- pain or pressure in the abdomen or back,
- a feeling of heaviness or fullness,
- swelling of the abdomen, and
- feeling an urgent need to urinate.
Why Haven’t I Gotten My Period?
10 symptoms of perimenopause
Perimenopause refers to the time period that begins when the ovaries begin to decline in function and continues until menopause (defined as the total cessation of menstrual flow for one calendar year). During this time, a woman may exhibit these symptoms that are largely due to abnormal hormonal fluctuations:
- Irregular vaginal bleeding
- Hot flashes
- Breast tenderness
- Nausea
- Night sweats
- Weight gain
- Decreased fertility
- Loss of bone density
- Mood changes
- Altered blood cholesterol levels
Pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy and endometriosis
Sometimes women in the very early stages of pregnancy experienced slight cramping, similar to mild menstrual cramps, right around the time that the fertilized egg implants in the uterus. This is termed “implantation pain” and happens right around the time of the expected period.
- Usually, there are no other symptoms at this time other than the absence of a period. Sometimes there is light spotting at the time of implantation.
Ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy refers to a fertilized egg attaching in an abnormal location outside of the uterus (womb), typically in the fallopian tubes.
- A ruptured ectopic pregnancy can lead to sudden, severe sharp pains in the lower abdomen that can spread to the back.
- Before this happens, there may be the typical symptoms of early pregnancy like
- tiredness,
- breast pain or tenderness, or
- nausea.
Endometriosis
This is a condition in which tissue, similar to that found inside the uterus, grows in other locations outside of the uterus. It is a very common condition.
- Endometriosis can cause painful menstrual cramping during the menstrual period and at other times of the month as well. It can cause
- infertility,
- painful bowel movements, or
- pain during sex in some women.
QUESTION
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), interstitial cystitis or painful bladder syndrome and appendicitis
PID refers to an inflammation of the internal sex organs that usually results from the spread of a sexually transmitted disease. It is usually caused by bacteria that spread from the vagina and cervix upward into the uterus, tubes, and ovaries.
- PID causes lower abdominal pain on both sides of the body, often accompanied by
- fever,
- vaginal discharge,
- nausea,
- vomiting, and
- pain or burning with urination.
Interstitial cystitis or painful bladder syndrome
This is a condition that results from chronic inflammation of the bladder. It can cause pain at any time of the month.
- Symptoms typically get worse when the bladder is full (when you have to urinate). It can cause pain and tenderness in the low abdomen or pelvic area. Other possible symptoms are
- painful urination and
- feeling an urgent need to urinate.
Appendicitis
The appendix is a small pouch of tissue attached to one end of the large intestine. When it becomes irritated and inflamed (appendicitis), it may rupture and cause more serious problems.
- Symptoms of appendicitis include
- abdominal pain that starts in the middle and usually moves to the lower right side of the abdomen.
- fever,
- nausea, and
- vomiting.
Health News
- Ozempic: Dieters Who Use Scarce Diabetes Drug Could Face Side Effects
- Sports-Linked Cardiac Arrest Rare in Seniors, Study Finds
- Sepsis Raises Odds for Heart Failure After Hospital Discharge
- After Baby Formula Scandal, FDA Announces New Unit Focused on Food Safety
- Many Seniors Shunned In-Home Care During Pandemic, Worsening Health
- More Health News »
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and indigestion
IBD refers to chronic (long-term) inflammation in the bowels (intestines). Both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are forms of IBD.
- Symptoms depend on the severity and exact type of IBD but usually include some type of abdominal pain.
- Other symptoms can include
- diarrhea,
- bloody stool,
- weight loss,
- fatigue,
- fever, and
- feeling an urgent need to have a bowel movement.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
This disorder is different from IBD. With IBS there are a number of symptoms related to digestion, but there is no chronic inflammation in the intestines as with IBD.
- Symptoms of IBS can vary from mild to severe. Typical symptoms include
- diarrhea,
- constipation, and
- abdominal pain or cramping.
Indigestion
This refers to having symptoms related to digestive symptoms and is a common complaint. Indigestion is also referred to as dyspepsia.
- Symptoms of indigestion usually include
- pain in the upper part of the abdomen,
- feeling overly full, or
- feeling too full after eating.
SLIDESHOW
When to seek medical attention
Always seek medical attention for the following serious symptoms that can accompany cramps or pain:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Sudden, severe, or worsening abdominal or pelvic pain
- Pain in the chest, arm, neck, or jaw
- Frequent vomiting
- High fever
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Black or tarry stools
- Shortness of breath
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Unexplained weight loss
- Slow or rapid heartbeats
- Loss of consciousness
Subscribe to MedicineNet’s Women’s Health Newsletter
By clicking “Submit,” I agree to the MedicineNet Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. I also agree to receive emails from MedicineNet and I understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet subscriptions at any time.
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
- Penis Curved When Erect
- Could I have CAD?
- Treat Bent Fingers
- Treat HR+, HER2- MBC
- Tired of Dandruff?
- Life with Cancer
Medically Reviewed on 3/8/2022
ReferencesJameson, J.L., et al., eds. Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine, 20th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2018.
National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine. “Period pain: Overview.” Aug. 1, 2019.
Top cramps but no period Related Articles
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix. Appendicitis often causes sings and symptoms such as abdominal pain in the lower right quadrant, nausea, vomiting, abdominal tenderness, fever, and loss of appetite. Delay in surgery can result in appendix rupture with potentially serious complications.
Appendicitis Quiz
How dangerous is appendicitis? Take this quiz to answer questions, get quick facts, and learn the causes of appendicitis as well as symptoms, risks, and treatments for this common condition.
CA 125 Ovarian Tumor Marker Blood Test
CA 125 is a protein, and a tumor marker or biomarker. CA 125 is present in greater concentration in ovarian cancer cells than in other cells. CA stands for cancer antigen. Increases in CA 125 can also occur with malignant tumors of the Fallopian tubes, lining of the uterus, lung, breast, and gastrointestinal track. Benign conditions such as infections of the abdomen, chest, menstruation, endometriosis, benign tumors of the ovaries, and liver disease can also raise CA 125.
Indigestion (Dyspepsia, Upset Stomach Pain)
Indigestion (dyspepsia) can be caused by diseases or conditions that involve the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and also by some diseases and conditions that do not involve the GI tract. Indigestion can be a chronic condition in which the symptoms fluctuate in frequency and intensity. Signs and symptoms that accompany indigestion include pain in the chest, upper abdominal pain, belching, nausea, bloating, abdominal distention, feeling full after eating only a small portion of food, and rarely, vomiting.
Pregnancy Symptoms
What are the early signs and symptoms of pregnancy? Can you know before your missed period? Read about nausea and vomiting (morning sickness), bloating, tender breasts, and more. Explore first trimester symptoms of pregnancy and learn what week pregnancy symptoms start.
Am I Pregnant Quiz
What are early pregnancy symptoms? In some women, symptoms range from a missed period to feeling lightheaded. Others may experience typical “morning sickness” and food cravings. Could you be pregnant? Take the quiz!
How Can I Stop Prolonged Periods Naturally?
Heavy periods may be a sign of some underlying health condition. Quite often, heavy and prolonged periods may be a result of nutritional deficiencies. There are a few home remedies for a heavy period. Your doctor may use medication or surgery to treat heavy periods.
How Late Can a Period Be Before You Know You’re Pregnant?
What is a late or missed period, and what can cause it other than pregnancy? Learn the early signs of pregnancy and when to take a pregnancy test to get accurate results.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a GI (gastrointestinal) disorder with signs and symptoms that include abdominal pain, bloating, increased gas (flatulence), abdominal cramping, diarrhea, constipation, and food intolerance.Two new tests are now available that may help diagnose irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea and constipation (IBS-M) irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D), and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). Treatment for IBS includes diet changes, medications, and other lifestyle changes to manage symptoms.
Ovarian Cancer Slides
Ovarian cancer symptoms and signs include abdominal pain, bloating, frequent urination, and a feeling of fullness. Ovarian cancer treatment depends on the stage and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapy.
Ovulation & Fertility
Boost fertility and increase your chances to conceive. Learn about ovulation calendars, diet, aging and other factors that can affect pregnancy.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) Quiz
What are risk factors for pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and how is it spread? Take this quiz to test your knowledge of this condition.
PMS vs. Pregnancy (Differences and Similarities)
Many women have difficulty figuring out if they are pregnant, have PMS, or are about to start their period. The most common signs and symptoms of early pregnancy, PMS, and the start of your period include mood swings, back pain, increased urination, and tender breasts. These three conditions also share other similar signs and symptoms, but there are unique differences between each. Moreover, there are symptoms that only occur if you are pregnant. Early pregnancy symptoms, PMS, and the start of the menstrual period all have common signs and symptoms like mood swings, back pain, and breast pain. Symptoms and signs between the three conditions that may seem similar, but are slightly different include the following: Pelvic or abdominal cramping before or during your menstrual period is normal; however, the cramping of early pregnancy is mild. If you are pregnant, nausea and vomiting, or morning sickness, is common. They are not common symptoms of PMS. Fatigue is common in both, but PMS usually goes away once your period begins. Food cravings or aversions to certain foods are common in both pregnancy and PMS, but if you are pregnant, the cravings or aversions to foods are more specific and intense. You may have spotting or bleeding if you are pregnant or suffering from PMS. When the embryo inserts itself into the uterus (implantation bleeding), you may mistake it as your menstrual period. However, implantation bleeding is much lighter (not enough to soak a pad or tampon) than the heaving bleeding experienced at the beginning of your period. Signs and symptoms that you may have only if you are pregnant include, implantation cramping and bleeding, a white, milky vaginal discharge, and your areolas or nipples darken. The only way to find out if you are pregnant is with a pregnancy test. Home pregnancy test kits are available without a prescription at pharmacies and most grocery stores. Contact a doctor or other health care professional if you think you may be pregnant.
Early Pregnancy Symptoms and Signs
Pregnancy symptoms can vary from woman to woman, and not all women experience the same symptoms. When women do experience pregnancy symptoms they may include symptoms include missed menstrual period, mood changes, headaches, lower back pain, fatigue, nausea, breast tenderness, and heartburn. Signs and symptoms in late pregnancy include leg swelling and shortness of breath. Options for relief of pregnancy symptoms include exercise, diet, and other lifestyle changes.
Pregnancy Test
There are two types of pregnancy tests. One is done in the doctor’s office, and tests the blood for the pregnancy hormone, hCG. The other type of pregnancy test can be bought over-the-counter and checks the urine for this hormone. There are many types of home pregnancy tests to choose from. Accuracy of home pregnancy tests depend on how, when, and who uses them, and the brand. It is possible to have a false-negative with a home pregnancy test.
Pregnancy: Prenatal Care and Tests
Prenatal care is important for the health of both mother and baby. Common prenatal tests include ultrasound, amniocentesis, screening for group B strep and chronic villus sampling. Prenatal care also helps detect health conditions related to pregnancy, such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes.
Stages of Pregnancy: Week by Week
See pictures on the various stages of pregnancy. See and learn what changes a woman’s body goes through and view fetal images of how her baby grows during the 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters.
Tubal Pregnancy Picture
A pregnancy that is not in the usual place within the uterus but is located in the Fallopian tube. See a picture of Tubal Pregnancy and learn more about the health topic.
Cramps but No Period? 9 Possible Causes
Cramping but no period? There are several gynecological and non-gynecological reasons you may be experiencing cramping. But is it normal to have cramps but no period? While they may be harmless, it’s always worth investigating the root cause of having cramping but no period to ensure your symptoms aren’t more serious.
Menstrual cramps are common, especially for women experiencing estrogen dominance, high prostaglandins or increased levels of inflammation. If this sounds like you, you may want to take a look at Natural Remedies for Cramps & PMS .
Why Do I Have Cramps But No Period?
If you’re having period cramps but no period, or a late period and cramps at an unexpected time of the month, it could be due to a number of things. Common causes include pregnancy, cysts, or IBS. Let’s dive into 9 of the most common reasons women experiencing cramping (other than their period) and what it means for your health.
1. Pregnancy
When a woman comes into my office with menstrual cramps and no bleeding, my first question is: is there a chance you could be pregnant?
It is common for women who have never experienced pregnancy, to have mild cramping and even some spotting that accompanies implantation.
I can remember when I was pregnant with my son, I swore my period was coming because my cramps were so bad. But three positive pregnancy tests later, it was clear that my period wasn’t the cause of my cramps. It’s completely common to mistake early stages of pregnancy with the beginnings of a period, which is why taking a pregnancy test is step one when you’re having cramps but no period.
If you’re a sexually active woman with cramping and a missed period, I recommend taking a pregnancy test at-home or with your doctor. It is always possible to become pregnant even while using contraceptives, so if you’re in doubt, please test.
2. Ovulation
Some women can actually feel ovulation. This is a condition called Mittelschmerz, when a woman physically experiences the release of the egg from the ovary. Ovulation occurs mid-cycle, usually around days 10-14 of your cycle. If you feel cramping mid-cycle, especially if it only lasts for a day, it could be ovulatory pain.
Ovulation pain varies from woman to woman. Some explain it as sharp and stitching, others a dull ache, and others a burning sensation. In most cases, ovulation pain can be eased with a hot water bottle or heating pad. Light exercise can also help reduce this temporary discomfort.
Ovulation cramps are usually not concerning unless the pain becomes unbearable. If you have severe cramp pain in the middle of your cycle, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor.
Although bothersome, I think it is pretty amazing that a woman can be so in tune with her body that she’s aware of ovulation while it’s occurring.
3. Ovarian Cyst
Cysts on the ovaries can cause pain and cramping throughout the month, though they’re especially common mid-cycle. The feeling can be dull or sharp, and the pain usually subsides when the cyst has minimized or burst.
If you consistently get inexplicable cramping, especially on one side at a time, I recommend a transvaginal ultrasound. This is an imaging process that goes through the vagina to look at the ovaries. This can help see any cysts or problems with the ovary.
Most ovarian cysts are benign, but they can become problematic if the cysts become too enlarged or there are a number of them.
When the mass of the ovaries is too large, it can lead to ovarian torsion. This is when the ovary twists, cutting off blood supply. This can be life-threatening. You’ll usually know something more serious is occurring, as the extreme pain will be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever, and chills. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
4. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a disease where the tissue that lines the uterus grows in other parts of the body. That tissue is still sensitive to hormone fluctuations, so it mimics the same swelling and bleeding that happens in the uterus throughout the menstrual cycle.
Women with endometriosis can feel menstrual-like cramps throughout the month. These usually occur in the pelvis area, lower back, lower abdomen, and even the upper thighs. This cramping can often be so severe that walking can feel like a chore. For other women, though, the cramping may come and go in waves. Endometriosis pain varies dramatically from woman to woman, which can often make it challenging to diagnose.
If you experience severe cramping but no period throughout the month, you may have endometriosis. Check out this article to learn more about the causes and holistic treatments of endometriosis.
5. Ovarian Cancer
A rare but possible cause of cramps without a period could be ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer can cause abdominal or pelvic pain that may radiate into the legs or back. It’s also often accompanied by bowel changes. This can include constipation, bloating, swollen abdomen, loss of appetite, and reduced urination.
In some cases, ovarian cancer may also cause spotting, which might lead you to believe the cramping is something else. It’s always worth a chat with your doctor if you have a change in your period or your digestion.
6. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection that’s made its way into the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. PID can be caused by a variety of infections, like E.coli and staphylococcus or gut and respiratory tract organisms.
About 85% of pelvic inflammatory cases are caused by sexually transmitted infections and bacterial vaginosis.
Women with PID may not have any signs or symptoms. When symptoms do present women experience extreme cramping without a period, along with discomfort and pain with sex. Fever and vaginal discharge are other signs you have an infection.
IUDs put women at a greater risk for pelvic inflammatory disease. The strings of the IUD actually aid a bacterial infection in making its way into your reproductive organs.
If you have unexplained cramping and a fever, seek medical attention immediately.
7. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Cramping can also have a non-gynecological origin. The colon and sex organs are in close proximity within the body, so pain in one can often translate to pain in the other. Pelvic and lower abdomen pain can easily be confused, which is why it’s important to look at other symptoms accompanying the cramps.
For example, if you identify that certain foods trigger cramps then that point to a gut issue, which gives you a clue as to where to investigate first.
If you have cramping after eating or other bowel-related symptoms, like abdominal bloating and constipation, you may have a case of SIBO, which is commonly misdiagnosed as IBS. This can be diagnosed with an at home test that you can order yourself or ask your doctor to order.
8. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Another colon-related cause of lower abdominal cramping is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD, which commonly presents as Chron’s or ulcerative colitis, is an autoimmune condition that affects the gut. Cramps can occur anywhere in the abdomen, and they’re often accompanied by tiredness, irritability, and even fever. If this is your root cause of missed period cramps then you’ll likely also have abnormal bowel changes, like constipation, diarrhea, or blood, mucus, and undigested food showing up in the stool (not including nuts and corn).
It’s important to catch IBD early to help rebalance the gut and improve the gut flora. Through diet and lifestyle therapies, you can nourish your immune and digestive health to end the pain.
If you believe this is what you may have, you’ll definitely need a gastroenterologist to help you get the diagnosis and counsel you on your options. A Naturopathic or Functional Medicine doctor can help you discover your root cause and creating lasting lifestyle changes to improve your health.
9. Appendicitis
Another cause of cramping in the abdomen can be appendicitis, which is when the appendix is inflamed or infected. If you have a fever and are experiencing lower abdomen pain on the lower right side or cramping around your belly button, it’s a good time to call your doctor or visit the hospital. Appendicitis is an emergency that needs immediate attention.
Diagnosing Cramps but No Period
Remember, if you have period cramps but no blood or period it can be caused by your reproductive system, gut, immune system or may even be a sign of pregnancy. So it’s worth consulting your doctor, especially if your cramps are persistent or severe.
When you feel cramps, jot it down in a journal. What day is it? What time of the month in your cycle? Are you cramping before a period? How does it feel? How long does it last? What did you eat?
This can help your doctor better understand what might be causing your late period pains and how to best treat your pain.
Common tests your doctor might perform to determine the cause include:
- An ultrasound
- A pelvic exam
- A Laparoscopy (surgery which looks inside your pelvic area).
Understanding different causes of cramping and their associated symptoms can help you take the appropriate steps towards regaining your health. Severe cramping is never normal. Mild to moderate cramping and lower back cramps also doesn’t have to be normal with the right holistic steps.
If you are experiencing cramps related to your menstrual cycle check out my 21-day hormone revolution detox . It’ll help you hit the reset button on your hormones and start moving towards a period free of cramps.
About Us
Family Medicine
In 2024 our team of doctors and nurses provide a comprehensive range of family planning services. Our doctors have expertise in antenatal care, preconception planning, and STD checks. Contraceptive advice including Mirena and Implanon insertion is available.- Early detection of illness;
- Family planning;
- Promotion of healthy lifestyle;
- Skin cancer checks;
- Sports injuries;
- Weight reduction;
- Workers compensation and third party.
- Cervical Screening tests;
- Reproductive health. Including Mirena and Implanon insertion;
- Shared antenatal care.
- Preventative Healthcare. Including cardiovascular screening, mental health and cancer checks;
- Prostate examination.
Children's Health
Baby Weighing Service. Babies can be booked with our Nurse for weighing, a doctors appointment is not required to use this service. Contact reception for a appointment to have your baby weighed.Immunisations. At Tuggeranong Square children's immunisation is regarded an important part of your childs health care. Our doctors take immunising children very seriously. and to ensure all children are immunised Tuggeranong Square Medical Practice doctors BULK BILL for all childhood immunisations. Tuggeranong Square Medical Practice also ensures the Practice Nursing Staff are highly trained in childhood immunisations.
Women's Health
Our practice is dedicated to treating a wide spectrum of women’s health concerns. We offer pre-natal, antenatal and postnatal care, contraceptive options, pap screening, and preventative health care advice. We provide assistance, advice and support through all stages of life, recognising the many issues many women may face from adolescence through to the peri and post-menopausal period.
Men's Health
We encourage men to present routinely to their GP to discuss all aspects of their health. We provide comprehensive advice and support for men to address the prevention and management of various health conditions. This may include assessments for cardiovascular risk, diabetes, cancer prevention, mental health assessments, STD screening, sports injuries and the importance of sleep as it relates to other areas of health.
