1

A Hernia

"Hernias are a common source of pain and a very easily missed source of pelvic pain, often times missed by radiologists, OB/GYNs and primary-care physicians," Dr. Sallie Sarrel, PT ATC DPT, a pelvic physical therapist specializing in endometriosis and occult or no-bulge hernia, tells Bustle. These can often cause pelvic and genital pain that can seem like period cramps, she says. "To make matters worse, the herniated tissue in the extra-peritoneal space becomes inflamed during the menstrual cycle," Sarrel says, so even though it might worsen during your period, it might be something else entirely. If you're experiencing significant pelvic pain, make an appointment with your doctor.

2

Painful Bladder Syndrome

Many people who get a period experience cramps during that time of the month. But your cramping could potentially be coming from a nearby area of the body if you experience it when you aren't bleeding. "Painful bladder syndrome [is] an inflammation of the bladder wall that causes cramping that people often think is menstrual cramps but is bladder pain," Sarrel says. This can be especially present in patients with endometriosis, she says, and many doctors overlook the condition as a source of pain. While period cramps usually subside in a few days, if you find yourself experiencing lasting pain, see a professional for help.

3

Diastasis Recti

Giving birth to a baby can be very painful. But even after the baby is born, you could be experiencing period-like pains that aren't actually related to your period. "After pregnancy [...] there can be a splitting of the abdominal sheath," Sarrel says. During menstruation, this pain in your abdomen can seem like it's normal cramping, when it's actually abdominal wall pain. If you've recently given birth and you're experiencing these abdominal pains — especially if they're different from the period cramps you experienced prior to pregnancy — bring it up at your next appointment.

4

Hypothalamic Amenorrhea

You probably don't get super excited every time you get your period each month, but if you suddenly lose it, that can definitely be cause for concern. If your period stops you might immediately assume it's a period-related issue, but that isn't always the case. People who stop menstruating may have hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), a condition where someone does not get their period, Dr. Kate Shkodzik, MD, an OB/GYN and medical advisor at Flo Health, tells Bustle. This condition can develop due to an eating disorder, stress, or too much exercise, she says. If you stop getting a normal period, it's definitely time to check in with your doctor to figure out what's wrong.

5

Constipation

"Pelvic pain similar to those you may experience during your period can be caused by other conditions. The most common is constipation," Hyams says. Whether you are constipated regularly or mostly during your period, this can be a frustrating condition. If you take a period-specific over-the-counter pain medication, it might contain caffeine, which can help dehydrate you and lead to constipation. You also could be eating different foods during your period due to cravings, which can disrupt your normal digestive rhythm. While constipation is a relatively minor issue, it can still be pretty uncomfortable, so it's worth checking in with your doctor if you're having trouble passing stools on a regular basis.

6

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

If you're experiencing period-like cramps or bleeding when you aren't on your period, you might assume that you're just having an extra period. But this may not be the case. Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of the reproductive organs of a person who gets a period that is often caused by some sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea, Shkodzik says. "PID can cause cramps not related to menstruation, abnormal discharge, and abnormal vaginal bleeding." If you've been having period symptoms when you aren't on your period and haven't been tested for STIs lately, you might want to book an appointment.

Everyone can experience periods differently, so you're the best person to notice that something isn't normal for your body. If you're ever in doubt about whether what you're experiencing is cause for concern or not, it's always a good idea to consult a doctor.