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menstrual-like cramps FROM running
So this is going to sound weird, but ever since I hit puberty I have gotten menstrual-like cramps from running. I remember every time I had to the do (not-so)”fun run” in high school, I’d be curled over in a ball with horrific menstrual-like cramps afterwards, even though my period was nowhere near. For that reason, I haven’t done any running since I finished P.E.
Recently, I decided to try jogging on the treadmill. Big mistake! Just from 2 minutes of trying to JOG, I spent the rest of the night in pain.
Anyone else get this? I feel like a freak of nature here. And, no, this isn’t a regular abdominal cramp. This feels just like starting my period, even though it’s not starting.
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15 Replies
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I used to get this too and, don’t know why it happens. My guess would be that maybe muscles in your uteris our tensing up when running. After running almost everyday on the treadmill I noticed one day that I hadn’t got those cramps in awhile.
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I get this sometimes. I have endometriosis and I think that’s what is causing my pain. But exercise causes your blood vessels to dilate which include your uterus. I don’t know. I would like to know too.
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I’m actually relieved to know that I’m not the only one! It doesn’t happen every time, but usually when I’m really pushing myself. I had the theory that it might b endometriosis, but I’m afraid of getting the tests to try to get an answer about that. I have some crazy hormones/cycles–ever since puberty. Maybe cysts? I also notice a correlation with my right iliopsoas (pelvic floor muscle that attaches to the low back and femur and assists with leg flexion: I.e. running) starting to burn/cramp, seeming to set off the uterus. I’ll have to google it and see what some blogs and forums say…thank you for the post, and good luck finding answers!
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Could be cysts too. Endometriosis can grow in different areas in your abdomen – even ligaments that suspend the uterus or ovaries
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Cramps during running can often be caused by dehydration, lack of potassium, or improper breathing. Often they are more likely to be a “side stitch” type of cramp, but I have definitely gotten them in the pelvic area too. What do you eat and drink before a run? Bananas are a great pre-run food that are loaded with potassium, which often is enough to prevent cramps. You can also try a sports drink or coconut water for potassium and electrolytes before you run. In terms of breathing, make sure you are taking deep breaths in and out when you run and avoid shallow breathing/panting.
With that being said, if none of the nutrition, hydration, and breathing modifications help and you suspect it is a gynecological issue, definitely see your Ob/Gyn for an ultrasound!
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I never considered endometriosis. That’s sort of a distressing thought. I’ve been on some form of birth control since I was 16, because I had awful cramps. I might have to ask a doctor about this one. Now I’m worried.
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I don’t think I ever had other endometriosis symptoms other than painful cramps. I was never a really heavy bleeder and my cycles were regular before the pill.
I drink water while exercising. I am not low in potassium or magnesium. I do rehydrate. I also do take full breaths while exercising.
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birth control usually controls endometriosis. so that’s good news. it can stop endo from growing.
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birth control is actually one of the treatments for endometriosis.
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I was on the pill from the age of 16 up until Dec 2011, then I switched to mirena, which I know is a treatment. Hopefully I’m good. Not like I care if I can’t run. I can do zumba no problem. For some reason jogging and running, even for short periods triggers cramps, but other high intensity activity is no problem for me. Weird.
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Bah, i guess my comment didn’t post. I saw it mentioned that guys can get it too?! Something about not doing a long enough warm up.
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Could be worth asking your doctor next time you’re in. I wouldn’t worry too much as long as you aren’t getting other symptoms. I do not know much about endometriosis; a classmate of mine had it and she said her periods were excruciating not running in general. Here are the symptoms of endometriosis from Mayo Clinic: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/basics/symptoms/CON-20013968 .
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I didn’t have “pain” during BMs but I did have discomfort, but I figured that was normal? Oh geez. I hope I don’t have that. I already have enough problems, right Adastra? ;D
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Don’t worry , just because you have cramping after running doesn’t mean you have endometriosis . But if you have been diagnosed with endometriosis it could be the cause of discomfort. You could also be ovulating , or just having muscular cramps like others have mentioned. I only mention it because I know I have endo and have had cramping during running among many other symptoms.
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you could just try eating a banana before you do an intense workout it could be the lack of potassium which helps relax muscles
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