What is mittelschmerz and how does it relate to ovulation cramping. How can you recognize the signs of ovulation pain. What are effective treatments for mid-cycle cramping. How can ovulation pain affect fertility and pregnancy planning.

What is Mittelschmerz and Its Connection to Ovulation

Mittelschmerz, a term derived from German meaning “middle pain,” refers to the cramping or discomfort some women experience during ovulation. This phenomenon occurs when the ovarian follicle ruptures to release 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 unclear, but several theories exist:

• The growing follicle may stretch the ovary’s surface, causing pain.
• The release of blood and fluid during follicle rupture may irritate surrounding tissues.
• The egg breaking through the ovary wall may cause discomfort due to the lack of natural openings in the ovaries.

Identifying the Six Key Signs of Ovulation Pain

Ovulation pain differs from menstrual cramps in several ways. Here are the six primary signs of mittelschmerz:

1. One-sided pain: The discomfort is typically felt on only one side of the lower abdomen.
2. Sudden onset: The pain often comes on unexpectedly and without warning.
3. Sharp sensation: It’s usually described as a sharp pain, twinge, or cramping rather than a dull ache.
4. Variable duration: The pain can last anywhere from a few minutes to 24 hours.
5. Alternating sides: The affected side may switch from month to month.
6. Timing: Ovulation pain occurs about two weeks before the start of the menstrual period.

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

The Impact of Ovulation Pain on Fertility and Pregnancy Planning

Can ovulation pain be beneficial for women trying to conceive? Indeed, experiencing mittelschmerz can serve as a natural indicator of fertility. Dr. Autry notes that women are most likely to conceive if they have intercourse right before, during, or immediately after ovulation. This knowledge can be advantageous for those trying to become pregnant.

Conversely, women who wish to avoid pregnancy can use this mid-cycle pain as an additional cue to abstain from unprotected intercourse. However, it’s crucial to remember that this method should not be relied upon as the sole form of birth control. Sperm can survive in a woman’s body for up to five days, meaning pregnancy is still possible from unprotected sex in the days leading up to ovulation.

Effective Treatments and Management Strategies for Ovulation Cramping

How can women alleviate the discomfort associated with mittelschmerz? For minor or brief ovulation pain, treatment may not be necessary. However, for more persistent cramping, several options are available:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can effectively relieve discomfort.
• Heat therapy: Applying a heating pad to the affected area or taking a warm bath can help relax tense muscles and ease cramping.
• Hormonal contraception: For women experiencing particularly bothersome monthly ovulation pain, birth control pills, patches, or vaginal rings can prevent ovulation and, consequently, the associated pain.

It’s important to note that extreme or prolonged mid-cycle abdominal pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out other potential causes such as appendicitis, ovarian cysts, or ectopic pregnancy.

Understanding the Relationship Between Ovulation Pain and the Menstrual Cycle

How does ovulation pain fit into the broader context of the menstrual cycle? Mittelschmerz typically occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle, coinciding with the release of an egg from the ovary. This timing is significant because it marks the midpoint between menstrual periods and the peak of fertility.

The hormonal fluctuations that trigger ovulation can also contribute to other symptoms, such as:

• Changes in cervical mucus
• A slight increase in basal body temperature
• Breast tenderness
• Increased libido

Understanding these cyclical changes can help women better interpret their body’s signals and make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

The Role of Ovulation Pain in Natural Family Planning Methods

Can ovulation pain be incorporated into natural family planning strategies? While not a standalone method, awareness of mittelschmerz can complement other fertility awareness-based methods (FABMs) such as tracking basal body temperature, monitoring cervical mucus, and using ovulation predictor kits.

When combined with these other indicators, recognizing ovulation pain can help women:

• Identify their most fertile days
• Time intercourse for conception
• Avoid unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy

However, it’s crucial to remember that ovulation pain alone is not a reliable method of contraception or conception planning. Consulting with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist can help individuals develop a comprehensive approach to family planning that suits their needs and preferences.

Distinguishing Ovulation Pain from Other Abdominal Discomfort

How can one differentiate between mittelschmerz and other types of abdominal pain? While ovulation pain has distinct characteristics, it’s essential to be aware of other conditions that may cause similar discomfort:

• Appendicitis: Usually presents with more severe, persistent pain that may start near the navel and move to the lower right abdomen
• Ovarian cysts: Can cause a dull or sharp pain that may be constant or intermittent
• Ectopic pregnancy: Typically causes sharp, stabbing pain on one side of the lower abdomen
• Endometriosis: Often results in chronic pelvic pain that may worsen during menstruation

If you experience severe, prolonged, or unusual abdominal pain, it’s important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Key Differences Between Ovulation Pain and Menstrual Cramps

To further clarify the unique nature of mittelschmerz, let’s examine how it differs from menstrual cramps:

Exploring the Connection Between Ovulation Pain and Hormonal Balance

How do hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle influence ovulation pain? The intricate dance of hormones plays a crucial role in the ovulation process and can impact the intensity of mittelschmerz. Key hormones involved include:

• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): Stimulates follicle growth in the ovaries
• Luteinizing hormone (LH): Triggers the release of the egg from the mature follicle
• Estrogen: Rises as the follicle develops and peaks just before ovulation
• Progesterone: Increases after ovulation to prepare the uterus for potential implantation

The surge of LH that prompts ovulation can also cause the release of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that can cause muscle contractions and inflammation. This may contribute to the sensation of cramping or discomfort during ovulation.

Hormonal Imbalances and Their Impact on Ovulation Pain

In some cases, hormonal imbalances may exacerbate ovulation pain or lead to irregular ovulation patterns. Conditions that can affect hormonal balance and potentially influence mittelschmerz include:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Thyroid disorders
• Endometriosis
• Perimenopause

Women experiencing persistent or severe ovulation pain should consult with a healthcare provider to rule out underlying hormonal issues and explore appropriate treatment options.

Lifestyle Factors That May Influence Ovulation Pain

Are there lifestyle choices that can affect the intensity of mittelschmerz? While ovulation pain is largely determined by individual physiology, certain factors may influence its severity or frequency:

• Diet: Some women report that reducing inflammatory foods and increasing anti-inflammatory nutrients may help alleviate ovulation discomfort.
• Stress: High stress levels can affect hormonal balance and potentially exacerbate ovulation pain.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity may help reduce overall menstrual and ovulation-related discomfort for some women.
• Hydration: Staying well-hydrated may help minimize bloating and discomfort associated with ovulation.
• Sleep: Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can support overall hormonal balance and potentially reduce pain sensitivity.

While these lifestyle modifications may provide some relief, it’s important to remember that every woman’s experience with ovulation pain is unique. What works for one individual may not be effective for another.

Natural Remedies for Ovulation Discomfort

For those seeking alternatives to over-the-counter pain relievers, several natural remedies may help alleviate ovulation pain:

• Ginger tea: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties
• Magnesium-rich foods: May help relax muscles and reduce cramping
• Essential oils: Lavender or peppermint oil applied topically may provide relief
• Acupuncture: Some women find this traditional Chinese medicine technique helpful for managing various types of pain, including mittelschmerz
• Yoga: Certain poses may help alleviate pelvic discomfort and promote relaxation

As with any natural remedy or complementary therapy, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating new treatments into your routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

The Psychological Impact of Ovulation Pain on Women’s Health

How does experiencing regular ovulation pain affect a woman’s mental and emotional well-being? While mittelschmerz is a physical phenomenon, its impact can extend beyond just bodily discomfort. Some psychological aspects to consider include:

• Anxiety: Women who experience severe ovulation pain may develop anxiety about their upcoming ovulation period.
• Disruption of daily activities: Recurring pain can interfere with work, social engagements, and overall quality of life.
• Relationship stress: Ovulation pain may affect sexual intimacy, especially for couples trying to conceive.
• Body awareness: Some women report feeling more in tune with their bodies and menstrual cycles due to ovulation pain.
• Fertility concerns: Persistent ovulation pain may lead to worries about reproductive health and fertility.

It’s important for women experiencing significant distress related to ovulation pain to seek support from healthcare providers or mental health professionals. Developing coping strategies and addressing any underlying concerns can help improve overall well-being and quality of life.

Support Systems and Resources for Women with Ovulation Pain

Various support systems and resources are available for women dealing with mittelschmerz:

• Online communities and forums where women can share experiences and advice
• Educational materials from reputable health organizations
• Fertility awareness apps that help track ovulation symptoms and pain patterns
• Support groups for women with reproductive health concerns
• Telemedicine options for consulting with healthcare providers about ovulation pain

Engaging with these resources can help women feel more empowered and informed about their reproductive health, leading to better management of ovulation pain and associated concerns.

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.

By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

These 5 PMS Subscription Boxes Will Help You Conquer Your Next Period

Everyone experiences PMS symptoms differently: bloating, cravings, fatigue, menstrual cramps, mood swings, the works. But these boxes can save anyone’…

By Katie RobinsonMay 22, 2018

7 Reasons You Have Period Pain

If you’re suffering from painful periods or severe menstrual cramps, consult your doctor, because period pain can be a sign of a serious problem.

By Jordan DavidsonJanuary 5, 2018

8 Foods That Help Fight PMS

When you have PMS, you may crave salty chips and other junk foods. However, boosting good nutrition can help get your symptoms under control.

By Beth W. OrensteinJanuary 2, 2013

The Facts About Female Hormones

Hormones are vital to bodily functions, especially reproduction. Read about female hormones, such as estrogen, and what to do about hormonal imbalances…

By Krisha McCoySeptember 22, 2010

5 Supplements That May Ease PMS Symptoms

Studies have shown that taking certain supplements, like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B6, may help ease PMS symptoms. Find out which supplements may…

By Krisha McCoySeptember 22, 2010

A Teen’s Guide to Her First Period

It can be difficult when a young girl experiences her first period and PMS symptoms. Here are tips to help your daughter deal with PMS and menstruation…

By Krisha McCoySeptember 22, 2010

The Link Between Weight and Menstrual Cycles

Body weight can impact the menstrual cycle and vice versa. Find out how weight changes affect periods and how menstrual bloating may move the needle on…

By Melanie WinderlichFebruary 17, 2010

Stress and Your Menstrual Period: A Cycle That You Can Break

If you’re under stress, you may experience an irregular period. Stress can affect your menstrual period and may even include a missed period.

By Melanie WinderlichFebruary 17, 2010

When Is a Menstrual Period Too Short?

A short period cycle usually doesn’t concern doctors as long as it follows a pattern. Learn what defines a normal menstrual cycle and an irregular period…

By Melanie WinderlichFebruary 17, 2010

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

Tags:

Women Health

Pregnancy

Photo: pexels

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.

ADVERTISING – CONTINUED BELOW

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.

Tags:

Women Health

Pregnancy test

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.

ADVERTISING – CONTINUED BELOW

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.