What is mittelschmerz and how does it relate to ovulation. How can you recognize ovulation pain. What are the causes of mid-cycle cramping. How can you manage and treat ovulation discomfort. When should you seek medical attention for ovulation pain.

What is Mittelschmerz and Its Connection to Ovulation

Mittelschmerz, a German term meaning “middle pain,” refers to the discomfort or cramping some women experience during ovulation. This phenomenon occurs when the ovary releases an egg, typically in the middle of the menstrual cycle. Dr. Amy Autry, a clinical professor at the University of California at San Francisco, explains that approximately 20% of women experience some form of ovulation pain.

The exact cause of mittelschmerz remains uncertain, but several theories exist:

• The growing follicle may stretch the ovary’s surface, causing discomfort.
• The release of blood and fluid during follicle rupture might irritate surrounding tissues.
• The egg breaking through the ovary wall could cause momentary pain.

Recognizing the Signs of Ovulation Pain

Ovulation pain differs from menstrual cramps in several key ways. Here are six distinct characteristics of mittelschmerz:

1. One-sided pain, corresponding to the ovary releasing the egg
2. Sudden onset without warning
3. Sharp pain, twinge, or cramping rather than a dull ache
4. Duration ranging from minutes to hours, rarely exceeding 24 hours
5. Potential alternation between sides from month to month
6. Occurrence approximately two weeks before menstruation

Additionally, some women may experience mild spotting or vaginal discharge during ovulation. In cases of severe cramping, nausea may also occur.

The Fertility Window: Implications of Ovulation Pain

For women trying to conceive, recognizing ovulation pain can be advantageous. Dr. Autry notes that the highest chances of conception occur just before, during, or immediately after ovulation. Conversely, women seeking to avoid pregnancy might use this pain as an additional indicator of fertility. However, it’s crucial to remember that sperm can survive in the female body for up to five days, making ovulation pain an unreliable sole method of contraception.

Is ovulation pain a reliable indicator of fertility?

While ovulation pain can serve as a useful indicator of fertility, it should not be relied upon as the sole method for either achieving or preventing pregnancy. Combining this natural sign with other fertility awareness methods and consulting with a healthcare provider can provide a more comprehensive approach to family planning.

Managing and Treating Ovulation Discomfort

For many women, ovulation pain is mild and brief, requiring no specific treatment. However, for those experiencing more significant discomfort, several management strategies can prove effective:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen
• Application of a heating pad to the affected area
• Taking a warm bath to increase blood flow and relax tense muscles
• Hormonal contraception to prevent ovulation and associated pain

Can hormonal birth control help with ovulation pain?

Yes, hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills, patches, or vaginal rings can effectively eliminate ovulation pain by preventing ovulation altogether. This approach may be particularly beneficial for women who experience severe or disruptive mid-cycle pain every month.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Ovulation Pain

While most cases of mittelschmerz are benign and self-limiting, certain symptoms warrant medical evaluation. Dr. Autry advises seeking medical attention if:

• Pain is extreme or unusually severe
• Discomfort persists for more than 24 hours
• Pain is accompanied by fever, vomiting, or other concerning symptoms

These symptoms could indicate more serious conditions such as appendicitis, ovarian cysts, or ectopic pregnancy, which require prompt medical intervention.

Differentiating Ovulation Pain from Other Abdominal Discomfort

Distinguishing ovulation pain from other types of abdominal discomfort is crucial for proper management and treatment. Here are some key differences:

How can you distinguish between ovulation pain and more serious conditions?

While ovulation pain is typically mild and short-lived, more serious conditions like appendicitis or ectopic pregnancy often present with severe, persistent pain accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or nausea. If you’re unsure about the nature of your abdominal pain, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

The Impact of Age on Ovulation Pain

The experience of ovulation pain can vary throughout a woman’s reproductive years. Research suggests that mittelschmerz is most common in adolescents and women in their twenties, but it can occur up to age 45. Several factors may contribute to this age-related pattern:

• Hormonal fluctuations tend to be more pronounced in younger women
• The ovaries may become less sensitive to hormonal changes with age
• Perimenopause can alter the regularity and intensity of ovulation

Does ovulation pain change with age?

Yes, the experience of ovulation pain can change as women age. While some may find that the pain diminishes over time, others might notice an increase in discomfort. These variations are often related to hormonal shifts and changes in ovarian function that occur throughout a woman’s reproductive lifespan.

Tracking Ovulation Pain: A Tool for Reproductive Health

For many women, tracking ovulation pain can provide valuable insights into their reproductive health and menstrual cycle. Here are some benefits of monitoring this mid-cycle discomfort:

• Improved awareness of fertility windows for family planning
• Early detection of cycle irregularities
• Better preparation for potential discomfort
• Enhanced communication with healthcare providers about reproductive health

Various methods can be used to track ovulation pain, including:

1. Mobile apps designed for menstrual and ovulation tracking
2. Traditional paper calendars or journals
3. Basal body temperature charting
4. Ovulation predictor kits used in conjunction with pain tracking

How can tracking ovulation pain improve reproductive health management?

By consistently tracking ovulation pain, women can gain a deeper understanding of their menstrual cycles and fertility patterns. This information can be invaluable for family planning, identifying potential reproductive health issues, and facilitating more informed discussions with healthcare providers. Additionally, recognizing patterns in ovulation pain can help women better prepare for and manage any associated discomfort.

Lifestyle Factors Influencing Ovulation Pain

While the primary cause of ovulation pain is the physical process of egg release, various lifestyle factors can influence the intensity and frequency of this discomfort. Consider the following aspects that may impact your experience of mittelschmerz:

• Stress levels and stress management techniques
• Diet and nutrition, particularly inflammatory foods
• Physical activity and exercise routines
• Sleep quality and duration
• Hydration levels
• Alcohol and caffeine consumption

By addressing these factors, some women may find relief from ovulation pain or experience less intense symptoms. It’s important to note that the effectiveness of lifestyle changes can vary among individuals, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Can dietary changes alleviate ovulation pain?

While there’s no one-size-fits-all dietary solution for ovulation pain, some women report relief by adopting an anti-inflammatory diet. This typically involves increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while reducing consumption of processed foods, sugar, and trans fats. Additionally, staying well-hydrated and limiting alcohol and caffeine intake may help manage discomfort for some individuals. It’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or nutritionist before making significant dietary changes.

Complementary and Alternative Approaches to Managing Ovulation Pain

In addition to conventional medical treatments, many women explore complementary and alternative approaches to manage ovulation pain. While scientific evidence for these methods may vary, some individuals find them helpful in alleviating discomfort. Popular alternative approaches include:

• Acupuncture and acupressure
• Herbal remedies such as chamomile or ginger tea
• Essential oil aromatherapy
• Yoga and gentle stretching exercises
• Mindfulness and meditation practices
• Traditional Chinese Medicine techniques

It’s crucial to approach these methods with caution and consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating them into your pain management routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Are there any risks associated with using alternative therapies for ovulation pain?

While many alternative therapies are generally safe when used appropriately, there can be risks involved. Some herbal supplements may interact with medications or affect hormonal balance. Certain physical practices might exacerbate pain if not performed correctly. It’s essential to research thoroughly and consult with qualified practitioners before trying new alternative therapies. Always inform your primary healthcare provider about any complementary treatments you’re considering to ensure they don’t interfere with your overall health management.

The Psychological Impact of Ovulation Pain

The experience of regular ovulation pain can have psychological effects that extend beyond physical discomfort. Some women may find that mittelschmerz impacts their quality of life in various ways:

• Anxiety about upcoming pain or disruption to daily activities
• Frustration with recurring discomfort
• Concerns about fertility or reproductive health
• Stress related to planning around potential pain
• Impact on intimate relationships and sexual activity

Addressing these psychological aspects is an important part of comprehensive ovulation pain management. Strategies that may help include:

1. Open communication with partners and family members about the experience
2. Seeking support from healthcare providers or counselors
3. Joining support groups or online communities for women with similar experiences
4. Practicing stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness or cognitive behavioral therapy
5. Educating oneself about the nature of ovulation pain to reduce anxiety

How can women cope with the emotional aspects of recurrent ovulation pain?

Coping with the emotional impact of recurrent ovulation pain involves a multifaceted approach. First, acknowledge that your feelings are valid and that it’s okay to seek support. Develop a support network that includes understanding friends, family, and healthcare providers. Consider keeping a journal to track both physical symptoms and emotional responses, which can help identify patterns and triggers. Engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation during pain-free periods, and practice self-compassion during times of discomfort. If ovulation pain significantly affects your mental health or quality of life, don’t hesitate to seek professional counseling or therapy for additional support and coping strategies.

Future Directions in Ovulation Pain Research and Treatment

As our understanding of reproductive health continues to evolve, so does the research into ovulation pain and its management. Several promising areas of study may lead to improved treatments and understanding of mittelschmerz in the future:

• Advanced imaging techniques to better visualize the ovulation process
• Genetic studies to identify potential hereditary factors in ovulation pain sensitivity
• Development of targeted pain relief methods specific to ovulation discomfort
• Exploration of the relationship between ovulation pain and overall reproductive health
• Investigation of long-term effects of chronic ovulation pain on fertility and quality of life

These research directions hold the potential to revolutionize how we approach and treat ovulation pain, potentially leading to more effective and personalized management strategies for affected individuals.

What new treatments for ovulation pain might be on the horizon?

While it’s difficult to predict specific future treatments, ongoing research suggests several promising avenues. These include the development of more targeted hormonal therapies with fewer side effects, advanced pain management techniques that focus specifically on reproductive system pain, and potentially even preventive treatments that address the root causes of ovulation pain. Additionally, as our understanding of the gut-brain-reproductive axis grows, we may see new treatments that approach ovulation pain from a more holistic, whole-body perspective. As always, it’s important to stay informed about new developments and discuss emerging treatment options with your healthcare provider.

Cramping when Ovulating – Signs, Treatment

Many women experience some cramping when they ovulate — there’s even a term for the pain: mittelschmerz.

By Jan SheehanMedically Reviewed by Lindsey Marcellin, MD, MPH

Reviewed: February 17, 2010

Medically Reviewed

If you have abdominal pain or cramping in the middle of your menstrual cycle, when you’re ovulating, you may be experiencing mittelschmerz, a word derived from the German for “middle” and “pain.”

Mittelschmerz occurs when the follicle — a tiny sac in the ovary that contains an egg — ruptures and releases the egg. This mid-cycle pain and discomfort can range from a minor pinch or twinge that’s over in minutes to more severe cramping that lasts for hours.

“You’ll feel it only on one side of your lower abdomen, depending on which ovary is releasing an egg,” says Amy Autry, MD, clinical professor of obstetrics-gynecology and reproductive sciences at the University of California at San Francisco.

Some women don’t feel anything when the egg is released from the ovary; others feel cramping a couple of weeks before their menstrual period. Overall, about 20 percent of women experience some type of ovulation pain, according to Dr. Autry.

While it’s unknown exactly why women experience cramping or ovulation pain, several theories exist. Before the egg is released, the follicle grows. This may stretch the surface of the ovary, causing pain. It’s also believed that blood and other fluid is released when the follicle ruptures, causing irritation that disappears as the fluid is reabsorbed. Because the ovaries have no openings, there may be some pain when the egg breaks through the ovary wall.

Six Signs of Ovulation Pain

Ovulation pain differs from menstrual cramps that come on just before or during a woman’s menstrual period. “It’s easy to recognize ovulation pain because it has a number of symptoms that are different from menstrual cramps,” says Autry.

The six signs of ovulation pain are:

• It’s one-sided.
• It comes on suddenly and without warning.
• It’s a sharp pain, twinge, or cramping rather than a dull ache.
• It often lasts only minutes, but may last a few hours or even up 24 hours.
• It may switch sides from month to month.
• It occurs about two weeks before your menstrual period starts.

Mild bleeding (spotting) or vaginal discharge may occur during this time. Some women may also experience nausea, especially if the cramping is severe. Mid-cycle pain is most common in adolescents and women in their twenties, but it can occur all the way up to age 45.

Understanding Your Body’s Signals

Women who experience ovulation pain may actually be at an advantage if they’re trying to get pregnant. Cramping in the weeks before your menstrual period is a sign that you’re ovulating and probably fertile. “You’re most likely to conceive if you have intercourse right before ovulation, on the day of ovulation, or immediately after ovulation,” says Autry.

On the other hand, mid-cycle pain may also help women who would rather not get pregnant. But while avoiding intercourse during times when you feel ovulation pain can be an effective back-up to your regular birth control method, don’t rely on it as your sole method of preventing pregnancy. “Sperm can live up to five days in a woman’s body,” cautions Autry. So you could get pregnant from unprotected sex on the days before you feel mittleschmerz pain.

Preventing and Treating Mid-Cycle Pain

For minor or brief ovulation pain, treatment is usually not necessary. For cramping that lasts more than a few minutes, over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, and others) or naproxen (Aleve and others) will usually relieve the discomfort. Applying a heating pad to the site of the abdominal pain or taking a warm bath can also help. Heat increases blood flow, which relaxes tense muscles and eases cramping.

If your mid-cycle abdominal pain happens every month and is particularly bothersome, hormonal contraception (birth control pills, patches, or the vaginal ring) is an option because it prevents ovulation. And without ovulation, you can’t have ovulation pain.

Mid-cycle abdominal pain that is extreme or lasts longer than a day should be evaluated by a doctor. Appendicitis, ovarian cysts, and ectopic (tubal) pregnancy can sometimes mimic ovulation pain, although pain from these conditions is typically much more severe.

A medical exam and diagnostic tests can rule out other causes for abdominal pain. “But in the vast majority of cases, abdominal pain or cramping in the middle of the menstrual cycle simply means that you’re ovulating and the pain will disappear soon,” says Autry.

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Symptoms and what they mean for fertility

Cramps that occur outside of a menstrual period might be a sign that a person is ovulating. Ovulation cramps occur when one of the ovaries releases an egg, which typically happens halfway through a person’s cycle.

Being aware of the symptoms of ovulation may help a person identify when they are most fertile.

In this article, we explore what ovulation cramps feel like and what they mean for fertility. We also look at other symptoms of ovulation and other causes of mid-cycle cramps.

Share on PinterestOvulation cramping begins about halfway through a person’s cycle, rather than right before or during menstruation.

An ovary typically releases an egg about midway through a person’s menstrual cycle. This is ovulation.

For some people, ovulation creates a sensation of cramping or pain once a month on one side of the abdomen. If a person has these cramps every month, the sensation may switch sides from month to month, depending on which ovary releases the egg.

Ovulation cramping may happen before, during, or shortly after the release of an egg.

Not everyone who menstruates has ovulation cramps. According to the University of Florida, about 1 in 5 people who menstruate have cramping around the time of ovulation.

Some people do not experience the cramping every month or do not have the same amount of discomfort every month.

Ovulation cramping may occur if:

• the follicle where the egg develops stretches the ovary
• the release of blood and other fluid from the ovary irritates surrounding tissue

The sensation of ovulation cramping can range from mild discomfort to intense pain. It may be difficult to identify the cause of the pain, especially if ovulation cramps do not occur every month.

The primary symptom of ovulation cramping is pain on one side of the abdomen, and this typically lasts 3–12 hours. However, a person who has had ovarian surgery may experience the pain until menstruation.

Below are characteristics of ovulation cramping:

• pain or cramping on one side of the abdomen
• pain or cramping that starts midway through the menstrual cycle
• pain or cramping that switches sides, month by month
• pain that is sharp and may be severe

Ovulation pain occurs right before, during, or right after the release of an egg, which is also when a female is most likely to become pregnant. As a result, the sensation may help with recognizing fertility.

However, people who do not want to conceive should not use ovulation cramps to determine when it is safe to have unprotected sex — this method is not accurate, the University of California note, and could result in unintended pregnancy.

Some people who menstruate do not experience any discomfort during ovulation.

A person might also recognize that they are ovulating by the following signs:

• increased cervical mucus
• breast tenderness
• spotting or light bleeding
• increased libido
• increased basal body temperature

Ovulation cramps occur when one ovary releases an egg. If sperm do not fertilize the egg, the menstrual cycle continues: the egg breaks and the uterus sheds its lining.

If sperm do fertilize the egg, the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. This attaching is called “implantation.”

Implantation can cause cramping. It can also cause a small amount of bleeding or spotting, which can occur 3–14 days after fertilization. Implantation bleeding is typically brownish and the flow is light.

Beyond implantation bleeding and cramping, early pregnancy can cause:

• nausea
• a frequent urge to urinate
• fatigue
• vomiting

Various health conditions cause abdominal cramps, which may happen to occur in the middle of the menstrual cycle and resemble ovarian cramping.

Some other causes of abdominal cramping or pain include:

• acute appendicitis, which can present with similar symptoms to ovulation cramps
• endometriosis, which involves tissue similar to uterine lining tissue growing outside the uterus and affects at least 11% of females in the United States ages 15–44
• uterine fibroids, which are noncancerous growths in the walls of the uterus and can cause pain, bleeding, and a feeling of fullness in the abdomen

Ovulation cramps typically go away on their own. To relieve the pain, the following can often help:

• over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen (Advil)
• a warm compress or bath
• hormonal contraceptives that prevent ovulation

If ovulation cramps go away within a few hours, a person usually does not need medical attention.

A person should contact a healthcare provider if they have cramping and:

• pain that lasts longer than 24 hours
• unusual vaginal bleeding
• painful urination
• vomiting
• have missed a period

Ovulation cramping is often mild and goes away after a few hours. It can let people who want to conceive know that the time might be right.

However, people who do not want to conceive should not rely on ovulation cramps to indicate fertility. This is not an effective way to time unprotected sex.

If the cramping or pain is intense, a warm bath and over-the-counter pain medication may help. Anyone who experiences severe pain or cramps accompanied by vomiting or unusual bleeding should contact a doctor.

Early pregnancy. What is implantation cramps?

When do cramps occur during implantation? How to define them? What other early signs of pregnancy are there

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Women Health

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If you have ever been pregnant or tried to get pregnant, you may have heard of implantation cramps. But when exactly do such spasms occur and why?

When ovulation occurs, one ovary releases an egg into the fallopian tubes. If you have sex 3 days before or within 24 hours after this release, then there is a high chance that the egg will be fertilized. When this happens, the newly fertilized egg settles on the lining of the uterus. The implantation process can cause mild cramps (implantation cramps). Not everyone feels them, they do not have any effect on the course of pregnancy or the health of the fetus.

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What does cramping look like after implantation?

In most cases, they feel like mild spasms, a little aching. Some people also describe a tingling or pulling sensation. Typically, cramps are felt in the lower back, lower abdomen, or even the pelvis.

When do they occur?

Each menstrual cycle is different and it may take six to ten days for a new fertilized egg to implant in the uterus.

As a rule, if the menstrual cycle is a regular menstrual cycle, then cramps can disturb 4-8 days before the next menstruation. (The average time between ovulation and menstruation is about 14 days)

Do they look like menstrual cramps?

The sensation itself is similar to menstrual cramps, but usually not as strong. Many women do not realize that they experience cramps after implantation because they are due to start their period within the next week. They consider their mild cramps to be premenstrual symptoms.

If spasms after implantation cause discomfort, then you can apply a warm heating pad to the place of pain, or drink painkillers. However, it is important to note that spasms after implantation should not be too painful. If the pain is severe, accompanied by other disturbing symptoms, such as heavy bleeding or fever, then you should contact your doctor. This may be a sign of an early miscarriage, an ectopic pregnancy, or an ovarian cyst.

Other signs of implantation

Other signs of implantation may be felt along with cramps. Here are some of them that may indicate pregnancy.

• Fatigue
• Chest pain
• Mood swings
• Nausea
• Headache
• Food cravings or aversion
• Headache circling

how to track ovulation and understand that it has come

If a woman is visiting a gynecologist complains that she cannot get pregnant, one of the reasons may be the lack of ovulation. Contrary to popular belief, it does not occur every month, but is necessary for conception. Few can boast that they feel the onset of this condition, focusing on sensations, so we will highlight the signs of ovulation in a woman.

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Causes of pain

Delayed menstruation causes

ovulation

Let’s talk about how to find out that ovulation has come, highlight the main signs and methods for determining.

Contents of the article

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

When the egg is released from the ovary into the fallopian tube after the rupture of the mature follicle, ovulation occurs. Thus, its meaning lies in the release of the egg for further fertilization and transportation through the genital tract. The ovulatory period does not have clear boundaries and a specific duration. For the most part, a woman is not able to feel the moment or day of ovulation, but certain signs and methods can indicate this.

What is ovulation and how does it happen

Each of the two ovaries contains approximately two hundred thousand immature eggs. By the time of puberty, about five hundred eggs reach full maturity. The female reproductive system goes through the same sequence of stages about once a month, which is associated with the activity of hormones. These stages are called the menstrual cycle – the time from the first day of menstruation to the first day of the next. A favorable period for the onset of pregnancy occurs in the middle of the cycle, when signs of ovulation can be distinguished.

The release of the egg from the ovary towards the sperm occurs on average on the 14th day of the cycle, but when it comes to a 28-day cycle. In women, these numbers vary, so deviations from the average are normal. The definition of ovulation is that at this time a mature egg leaves the ovary and descends through the fallopian tube into the uterus. During the day, it can be fertilized.

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In the second phase of the cycle, the “main” follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, its function is the synthesis of the hormone progesterone. The corpus luteum functions for about ten days. In parallel, the lining of the uterus grows and thickens to receive and nourish the fertilized egg if needed. If conception does not occur, the egg dies, and the uterus cleans itself from the mucous membrane – critical days come. We will tell you what signs are noticeable during ovulation, but first we will explain how the egg matures.

• After the start of menstruation on the fifth or seventh day, the cell size reaches 4-5 mm.
• Cover of connective tissue appears on about the eighth day, the dominant follicle is different from the rest.
• In diameter, the leading follicle is 16-18 mm by the twelfth day, the rest regress at this time.
• The egg matures and leaves the follicular cavity through the rupture on the fourteenth day, about 36-48 hours pass between the process of preparing for ovulation and ovulation itself, but no more.
• The ovulatory cycle begins on the fourteenth or sixteenth day, when the diameter of the follicular cell (graafian vesicle) can exceed 20 mm.
• If the egg is fertilized, by the fourth day the embryo will enter the uterus and implantation will occur. If not, the egg will die.

Once again, we recall that we have considered the standard option – 14 days with a 28-day cycle. As a rule, observations during one cycle do not reflect an accurate picture. And the duration of the menstrual cycle is affected by the rate of maturation of the egg in its first phase before the onset of ovulation, the first signs of which we will consider below.

Sensations during ovulation and its main signs

Some women say that their intuition, sixth sense or some personal observations tell them about the onset of the desired phase. Like, the body sends them strong signals. Medicine reacts with caution to subjective sensations, but signs and symptoms that indicate ovulation still exist.

• Spasms on one side of the abdomen (on the side where the process is taking place), sometimes similar to cramps, pulling pains below, which is most likely due to tension in the organ.
• Increased vaginal discharge in the middle of the menstrual cycle is also a sign of ovulation in a woman. The secret becomes more liquid and creamy, similar to raw egg white.
• Often the body temperature rises by about 0.3 – 0.5 degrees, and after two or three days it returns to its previous value.
• Increased sensitivity of the breast, including in the area of ​​the nipples. The occurrence of this symptom is affected by hormonal fluctuations in the body.
• The cervix rises and is less palpable through the vagina, becoming softer and wider. The gynecologist may notice this during the examination.
• How to understand and recognize ovulation if there are signs of an emotional nature? A woman’s mood improves, she experiences increased sexual desire, her sense of smell even becomes more acute (to search for a partner). This is because the level of the hormone estrogen rises, which affects the emotional lift. From a physiological point of view, the quality of cervical mucus improves, which promotes conception.

You should not rush to the forum to read how girls find all the signs of ovulation in themselves, and then note imaginary flaws in themselves. The listed symptoms are individual, may appear separately or not at all.

How to calculate ovulation

It is believed that ovulation occurs two weeks before the next period. So that the signs of early pregnancy do not take you by surprise, it is better to know when ovulation will begin. To do this, it is enough to keep a women’s calendar. It is necessary to subtract fourteen days between ovulation and the first day of menstruation from the menstrual cycle as a whole.

If the cycle lasts 30 days, ovulation will occur approximately on the 16th day, if 33, then on the 19th. The regularity of the cycle plays a big role in this regard. When it is unstable, the calculation may be wrong. For example, if the cycle lasts from 27 to 31 days, ovulation will occur between 13 and 17 days. To make the most accurate calculations, you need to track several cycles and calculate the average duration. Subtract 14 from the last digit and get the approximate date. No matter what obvious signs of ovulation you have, it is better to do a test, an ultrasound scan, or use other methods to get a reliable result.

How to determine ovulation: working methods

Knowing when this process occurs is important in addressing two questions. If a woman plans to become pregnant, and if she uses a calendar method of contraception. It is not enough to rely solely on signs, we will tell you how else you can understand that you have started ovulation.

Folliculometry

Ultrasound diagnostic method by which the doctor observes folliculogenesis during the menstrual cycle. He sees the process of maturation of the follicle and the development of the dominant. This method is much more informative than just external signs during ovulation or subjective sensations. For example, if the size of the dominant follicle is 18 mm, this day and the next are suitable for pregnancy.

The procedure is performed either transvaginally (by inserting a transducer into the vagina) or abdominally (through the anterior abdominal wall). On the monitor, the specialist identifies signs of the onset or past ovulation:

• maturing follicles
• follicular rupture
• accumulation of fluid behind the uterus

This method has its positive and negative sides: 9000 3

• Pros: Monitoring allows you to see the fertile day and find out if artificial hormonal stimulation is needed.
• Cons: For research, you need to go through several procedures, and for a more complete picture, you need to observe for several menstrual cycles. First you need to come 3-5 days from the beginning of your period, then 5-7 days after the previous ultrasound. Then the intervals of the sessions are every two days. It turns out that observations take a lot of time and you have to bear the costs.

Ovulation Tests

A test that you can do at home and buy at the pharmacy will help you catch signs of ovulation. It detects the rise in luteinizing hormone (LH) levels and is similar to a pregnancy test. They have a common mechanism of action – you need to wet the strip with urine and wait for the result.

True, the reliability of the study is noted in the morning hours after the onset of pregnancy, while the signs of ovulation are more accurately seen in the daytime. Just then, the concentration of luteinizing hormone in the urine increases. Before ovulation, the values ​​will be maximum, and tests make it possible to fix the peak. A positive result indicates that this and the next days are the most favorable for conception.

For example, if the cycle is 30 days, then from the 13th day you need to start measuring. Even if there are signs of ovulation, but it has not come, without ovulation, the second strip will not appear. Around day 15, the test line will become as bright as the control line. This means that the ovulatory period needs to wait for the next day.

• Pros: Convenience and ease of doing research at home. Observations do not take much time.
• Cons: False-negative results are due to different testing times, the amount of fluid drunk, with an irregular cycle, there is a high chance of missing ovulation. In addition, sensitive tests are expensive.

Temperature measurement

If the first sign of ovulation is vaginal discharge, the second is fever. The dynamics of its change speaks about the onset of the process. In the first days of the cycle, the basal temperature is kept at approximately the same level. The day before ovulation, it decreases by fractions of a degree, and on day X it increases above the beginning of the cycle.

It is important to remember that discharge is easy to spot, and sensations due to temperature fluctuations are less obvious signs of ovulation. They do not affect well-being. Therefore, it is necessary to take measurements with an accurate thermometer with a minimum error. The procedure is performed immediately after waking up, without getting out of bed. You can’t even run to the toilet or to another room for a thermometer. It should lie next to the evening. It is advisable to take measurements at the same time and highlight the results on the graph by connecting the points at the end into a broken line.

So, how to know that ovulation has come, what are the signs for this regarding changes in body temperature. On the first day of the cycle, it can be 36.9 degrees. A few days before ovulation – 36.2. And if she crawled up to 37 degrees, then ovulation most likely occurred. During menstruation, you do not need to use the method.

If the temperature rises after ovulation, the probability of successful conception is high, what early signs may indicate this, we wrote earlier. Note that measurements are taken rectally, since other methods give large deviations from the actual basal temperature. It is necessary to see changes in tenths of a degree, so it is possible that a woman sometimes notes a random wandering of temperature with false rises and falls.

• Pros: The availability and efficiency of the method, while following the rules of measurement, makes it stand out from the rest.
• Cons: The result is affected not only by the phase of the cycle, but also by stress, ailments, sleep disturbances, diseases, sexual contacts. Because of all these points, the temperature can rise, which complicates the search for symptoms. Reviews of experts say that the method determines the signs of ovulation, but it is considered auxiliary, not the main one.

Blood test

There is no specialized blood test to determine ovulation. But in laboratory conditions, indicators of luteinizing hormone are monitored. We will tell you what signs in this case appear so that you can catch the day of ovulation. About a day before the onset, the concentration of LH in the blood increases tenfold. Blood must be donated on days 3-8 and 19-21. At the peak of the hormone concentration, ovulation occurs. It reflects the level of the hormone in numbers with great accuracy.

Also, the analysis gives the opportunity to see the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). It is he who stimulates the growth of follicles, and together with LH is responsible for the secretion of estrogen and ovulation in general. If its concentration reaches 40 or more mIU / ml, it is almost impossible to get pregnant. In young women, this indicator may indicate a low ovarian reserve, and in mature women, it may indicate a loss of childbearing function.

• Pros: The blood sampling procedure itself takes little time, the analysis shows the onset of ovulation with great accuracy.
• Cons: There is a need to regularly go to the clinic, the analysis has to be taken several times, so the method can be considered expensive.

Why pain occurs during ovulation

Pain is not a common symptom of ovulation. It is not found in all women. Drawing pains are in the lower abdomen in the center, on the right or on the left, which depends on which ovary the dominant follicle matures. An unpleasant sensation is associated with an increase in the level of biologically active substances in the body of a woman before ovulation – prostaglandins.

They dissolve the wall of the follicle so that the egg can enter the fallopian tube. This gap cannot be physically felt, but the mechanisms associated with the process sometimes lead to nausea, headaches and discomfort in the lower abdomen. It should be noted that after menstruation, signs in the form of pain really indicate impending ovulation, and not about any pathology. The first is characterized by the following indicators:

• Pain occurs on the day of ovulation, sometimes it is noted the day before or a day or two after it. It should last no more than two days and pass on its own.
• Feelings accompany ovulation for several cycles, for clarification it is advisable to keep a diary and describe such phenomena in it.
• Approximately two weeks after the painful symptoms, another ovulation occurs.
• Pain is usually mild and does not require medication.

Severe pulling pains should alert, especially if they are accompanied by fever, dizziness, vomiting. Signs of pathology – blood discharge during ovulation. If they are weak, then hormonal changes take place. There is a decrease in the amount of the hormone estrogen and a weakening of the endometrium. But if the discharge is plentiful or purulent, this is a clear reason to see a doctor. And you should not prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on your own, because on the days of the expected ovulation or shortly before them, they can reduce the chances of conception.

What happens to the egg after ovulation

When a follicle ruptures, the egg travels into the fallopian tube, where it can meet the male sex cells. If spermatozoa survive up to seven days in the uterus and fallopian tubes, the cell is given much less time – from 12 to 24 hours. Conception will occur only if the meeting of the spermatozoon with the female reproductive cell took place during the period of her vital activity.

The path to the female cell is difficult, spermatozoa do not always pass it in time. If fertilization does not occur, the next day the egg is unable to complete the task after ovulation. It turns out that if the fetal egg does not attach in the uterine cavity, it dies. But during fertilization, the egg finds a place and attaches to the hairs of the uterine wall. During this period, there may be slight pink discharge. A fertilized egg is already considered an embryo. You can confidently talk about the onset of pregnancy in 6-8 weeks.

Why ovulation does not occur and is it dangerous? If conception did not occur in a short period of cell viability, after ovulation, the first signs of pregnancy in the same cycle should not be expected. Most likely, it will not come. But it also happens that conception occurs in the second phase of the cycle. But then ovulation is not celebrated on the 14th day, as usual, but approximately on the 18th. Then ovulation is called late.

In this situation, the risk of an unplanned pregnancy is likely, because the woman considers the days safe and does not use contraceptives. By the way, for planning pregnancy, the signs of early ovulation are also not very convenient. This cyclic pathology has a short follicular phase – less than 12 days, so the chances of conceiving a child are reduced. In this case, it has not yet fully developed and matured, and therefore is not ready for fertilization. If it happens, the risk of miscarriage is high.

Sometimes it happens that menstruation comes on time, but ovulation does not occur. Normally, a woman can observe up to three anovulatory cycles without changes in her health status. But if there are more of them, you should consult a doctor and be examined. We have told how ovulation manifests itself, we will list the main reasons for its absence:0048

• elevated prolactin hormone levels
• thyroid dysfunction
• lack of estrogen, excessive production of androgens
• polycystic ovary syndrome
• oncology of the pituitary, ovaries and adrenal glands
• automyom lunar diseases
• taking antidepressants, COCs, corticosteroids, etc.

In any case, all these factors require increased attention, because they pose a danger to women’s health. You can suspect something is wrong with an irregular cycle, the absence of menstruation, with prolonged bleeding, a sharp increase in weight, hair loss. Determining ovulation is important not only for the implementation of plans to become a mother, but also for controlling body functions.