Manipal Pune doctor warns women: Don’t confuse kidney stone pain with period cramps

A senior kidney specialist from Manipal Hospitals Baner, Pune, has urged women to be more aware of their health and not confuse kidney stone pain with regular menstrual cramps. Dr. Saurabh Khiste, consultant in nephrology, explained that many women mistake the symptoms of kidney stones for period-related pain, which can delay proper diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Khiste said that this confusion is understandable because the pain caused by kidney stones can feel very similar to menstrual discomfort. However, he warned that ignoring the difference can be dangerous and even life-threatening if treatment is delayed.

He explained, “Although kidney stone symptoms can look like menstrual cramps, the pain from kidney stones is much more severe. Women might think it is a normal period problem, but failing to get timely care can lead to serious issues.”

Kidney stones are formed when minerals and salts build up inside the kidneys. Small stones can pass through the body without much pain, but larger ones can block the urinary tract and cause intense pain, nausea, or vomiting.

According to Dr. Khiste, the pain from kidney stones often starts in the back or side and spreads toward the lower abdomen or groin. In comparison, period pain usually stays in the lower abdomen or pelvic area. “The intensity of kidney stone pain is usually much higher, and it can come suddenly,” he explained.

He also said that hormonal changes during menstruation can make it harder for women to tell the difference. “Hormonal changes, bloating, and nausea are common in both conditions. This overlap makes it confusing,” he added.

Dr. Khiste also pointed out that women with gynecological conditions like ovarian cysts or endometriosis might misread kidney stone pain as part of their usual menstrual discomfort. “Sometimes women feel abdominal pressure and think it’s related to their cycle, but it might actually be a kidney issue,” he said.

The doctor emphasized that women should not ignore warning signs. Some key symptoms to watch for include burning while urinating, blood in the urine, frequent urination, or sharp pain in the side or lower back. These symptoms may indicate kidney stones and need immediate medical attention.

If untreated, kidney stones can cause serious complications such as kidney swelling (hydronephrosis), repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs), or even kidney damage. “Early diagnosis is very important,” said Dr. Khiste. “Simple tests like CT scans or ultrasound can easily identify kidney stones and help doctors provide the right treatment.”

Dr. Khiste encouraged women to seek medical advice if they experience any unusual pain, especially if it feels stronger or different from normal menstrual cramps. “Never assume it’s just period pain,” he said. “Your health should never be taken lightly.”

He added that staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive salt can help prevent kidney stones. Drinking enough water helps flush out minerals that can form stones.

This awareness is especially important because many women tend to ignore their pain, believing it to be part of their menstrual cycle. But as Dr. Khiste explained, paying attention to the body’s signals and consulting a doctor early can save women from severe pain and long-term kidney problems.

In short, while menstrual cramps are common and usually harmless, kidney stones are a medical condition that needs proper care. Recognizing the difference between the two can protect women’s health and prevent serious complications in the future.