PAIN IS NOT NORMAL!!!!! If you are having bowel issues you could have endometriosis on your intestines. Can you find an endo specialist? If you are in the U.S. you can contact the endo assoc to find one near you.
http://www.endometriosisassn.org/.
I don't know if it is normal, but I have the same thing. It is like the cramps triggers intestinal cramps and I make a lot of trips to the bathroom.