Symptoms of menstrual cramps include: 
Throbbing or cramping pain in your lower abdomen that can be intense
Pain that starts 1 to 3 days before your period, peaks 24 hours after the onset of your period and subsides in 2 to 3 days
Dull, continuous ache
Pain that radiates to your lower back and thighs
 Some women also have: 
Nausea
Loose stools
Headache
Dizziness
