Premenstrual Cramps

I frequently have cramps before getting my period, but they may happen a few days before I actually see bleeding. Am I considered niddah when they start? If not, am I obligated to do bedikot to determine whether I have started bleeding or not?

Dear questioner,

Thank you for your question.

Cramping does not make you a niddah. If you consistently see a particular symptom prior to your period, then it may constitute a veset haguf (see article). During a veset day, you would do a bedikah. Intercourse would be forbidden but touching, hugging, and kissing, would be permitted. But if it is not a veset day, you are not obligated to constantly do bedikot due to the cramping and we would not recommend it.

It might be prudent to do a bedikah prior to deciding to have marital relations during this time period. If you find a spot on your bedikah cloth, it will make you a niddah. If you don't, then you are not a niddah. You can decide whether to avoid intercourse but still be allowed hugging and kissing and no harchakot, or to take the risk of doing a bedikah, knowing that if it is ok you can have relations, but if it's not ok you are niddah with all its restrictions.

This internet service does not preclude, override or replace the psak of any rabbinical authority. It is the responsibility of the questioner to inform us of any previous consultation or ruling. As even slight variation in circumstances may have Halachic consequences, views expressed concerning one case may not be applied to other, seemingly similar cases.

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