Dear Nats,
Just FYI: Based on experiences in a Reiki circle & personally, hands on Reiki seemed to dramatically increase stomach gurgling & gas for some. People who had just eaten were sometimes embarassed by stomach noises as soon as Reiki hands were placed above their abdomen. One of the things that may worsen menstrual cramps is distension of the colon by gas or bowel content. The uterus is generally more tender to touch during periods & extra pressure on it becomes noticeable. Actually, moving things along does help though it might be uncomfortable in the process. A heating pad & a warm drink sometimes soothes.
peace & joy,
holobon