Is it normal to feel like you are having contractions while waiting for a period

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My period was supposed to start yesterday, but instead I woke up in pain with contraction-like sensations. This has happened twice now, and both times I've felt nauseous and tearful. We've been trying for our second child for two years, but my irregular periods make it challenging. These episodes cause severe lower back cramps, stomach sensitivity, and bloating that disappears after a few minutes.