Why do I have cramps when I’m NOT on my period?

Great question! Most folks understand that periods come with cramps, but many people do not know that ovulation can cause cramps, too! It’s called 'mittelschmerz.’ Somewhere in between periods (flushing out the uterine lining from the vagina) is ovulation. Ovulation is the release of an egg from the ovaries and generally happens about a week or so after your period finishes, or two weeks before your next period (though everyone is a bit different). It might last a couple of days and can change in location in your abdomen from cycle to cycle. So don’t panic! It’s quite common.