Can menstrual cramping be caused by irritable bowel syndrome?

I discovered a few days ago that I mostly likely have Irritable Bowel Syndrome. I started this new medicine, and I noticed today that I have menstrual cramps. They feel different, though, like they aren't being caused by my uterus contracting, but maybe by the muscles that are superficial to the uterus, because they also seem to reach farther up. I'm not quite sure what they are. Any ideas? Thanks!

Are you menstruating? It depends on what your symptoms are that the new medicine is trying to target. If you have ad frequent bouts of diarrhea you may have started a med to slow the bowel down, alternatively if you have had constipation you may need a medicine to speed the bowel up a little. Either way, this new medicine is likely given you a few side effects-which is the cramping that you feel. This problem should pass as your body adjusts to the medication. Did your Dr. discuss with you trying the "Elimination diet"? This is generally used for food allergies, which often wreak havoc with the bowels. There is no sense in taking medicine for the symptom (IBS) IF there is an underlying cause that can be treated and eliminate the problem. Not all IBS suffers have food allergy, but MANY do!! Look online for guidance on the diet. Once you have carefully cleaned up your food intake (always reading labels!) you can get a sense if your symptoms subside or improve. The most common irritants that lead to bowel problems are wheat, yeast, sugar and dairy. Talk to your Dr. and let him/her know you would like to try this and see if you get the benefit. Thankfully there are many alternatives to wheat and dairy so you can eat a delicious and varied diet without feeling deprived, but more importantly without the discomfort of IBS>