What causes ovulation pain. How long does ovulation pain typically last. What are the symptoms of ovulation pain. When should you see a doctor for ovulation pain. How can ovulation pain be managed effectively. Is ovulation pain a sign of fertility. Can ovulation pain be a symptom of other health conditions.

Understanding Ovulation and Its Role in the Menstrual Cycle

Ovulation is a crucial phase in the female menstrual cycle. It occurs when a mature egg is released from one of the ovaries and travels through the fallopian tube towards the uterus. This process typically happens once a month, approximately two weeks before the next menstrual period begins.

Ovulation is essential for fertility, as it provides the opportunity for the egg to be fertilized by sperm. However, not all women experience ovulation regularly. Factors that can affect ovulation include:

• Use of hormonal contraceptives
• Pregnancy
• Postmenopausal status
• Hormonal imbalances (e.g., polycystic ovary syndrome)
• Stress
• Extreme weight fluctuations

Prevalence and Characteristics of Ovulation Pain

Ovulation pain, also known as mittelschmerz (German for “middle pain”), is a common experience for many women. Studies suggest that up to 40% of women may experience some form of discomfort or pain during ovulation. The intensity and duration of this pain can vary significantly among individuals.

How long does ovulation pain typically last?

The duration of ovulation pain can range from a few minutes to 48 hours. For most women, the discomfort is relatively short-lived and manageable. However, if the pain persists for more than three days or is accompanied by other unusual symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Ovulation Pain

Ovulation pain can manifest in various ways, and women may experience different symptoms. Common signs of ovulation pain include:

• A dull ache in the lower abdomen
• Sharp, sudden twinges of pain
• Cramps on one side of the pelvis
• Mild pressure or discomfort in the lower abdomen
• A sensation of bloating or fullness

These symptoms typically occur on the side of the body where the ovary is releasing the egg. Some women may also experience light spotting or changes in cervical mucus during ovulation.

Exploring the Causes of Ovulation Pain

While the exact cause of ovulation pain remains unclear, several theories have been proposed to explain this phenomenon:

Follicular swelling and rupture

As the follicle containing the egg matures, it expands, potentially causing discomfort. When the follicle ruptures to release the egg, it may cause a sharp pain or twinge.

Irritation from follicular fluid

When the egg is released, a small amount of follicular fluid and blood may enter the abdominal cavity. This can cause irritation of the surrounding tissues, leading to pain or discomfort.

Fallopian tube contractions

The fallopian tubes may contract to help propel the egg towards the uterus, potentially causing cramping sensations.

Hormonal fluctuations

The rapid changes in hormone levels that occur during ovulation may contribute to pain or discomfort in some women.

Differentiating Ovulation Pain from Other Conditions

While ovulation pain is generally harmless, it’s essential to distinguish it from other potential causes of pelvic pain. Conditions that may mimic or exacerbate ovulation pain include:

• Endometriosis
• Ovarian cysts
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Appendicitis
• Ectopic pregnancy

If you experience severe or prolonged pain, or if your symptoms are accompanied by fever, heavy bleeding, or unusual discharge, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Effective Management Strategies for Ovulation Pain

For many women, ovulation pain is mild and doesn’t significantly impact daily activities. However, for those experiencing more intense discomfort, several management strategies can provide relief:

Over-the-counter pain relievers

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

Heat therapy

Applying a heating pad or taking a warm bath can help relax the muscles and ease discomfort.

Relaxation techniques

Practicing relaxation methods such as deep breathing exercises or meditation may help manage pain and reduce stress.

Hormonal contraceptives

For women experiencing severe ovulation pain, hormonal birth control methods that suppress ovulation may be recommended by a healthcare provider.

Dietary changes

Some women find that reducing their intake of caffeine, alcohol, or certain foods helps alleviate ovulation pain.

The Connection Between Ovulation Pain and Fertility

Many women wonder about the relationship between ovulation pain and fertility. While experiencing ovulation pain doesn’t guarantee fertility, it can be an indicator that ovulation is occurring.

Is ovulation pain a reliable sign of fertility?

Ovulation pain can be a helpful cue for women trying to conceive, as it may indicate the optimal time for fertilization. However, it’s important to note that not all women experience ovulation pain, and its absence doesn’t necessarily imply infertility. Additionally, the timing of ovulation pain may not always coincide precisely with the release of the egg.

For those trying to conceive, combining awareness of ovulation pain with other fertility tracking methods, such as basal body temperature charting or ovulation predictor kits, can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the fertile window.

When to Seek Medical Advice for Ovulation Pain

While occasional mild ovulation pain is typically not a cause for concern, certain situations warrant medical attention. Consider consulting a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
• Pain lasting longer than three days
• Pain accompanied by heavy bleeding or unusual discharge
• Fever or other signs of infection
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Difficulty urinating or having bowel movements

A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Diagnostic Approaches for Evaluating Ovulation Pain

When investigating the cause of ovulation pain or related symptoms, healthcare providers may employ various diagnostic tools and techniques:

Medical history and physical examination

A detailed discussion of your symptoms, menstrual history, and overall health, combined with a physical examination, can provide valuable insights.

Pelvic ultrasound

This imaging technique can help visualize the ovaries, uterus, and surrounding structures, potentially identifying cysts, fibroids, or other abnormalities.

Blood tests

Hormone level assessments and other blood tests can help evaluate overall reproductive health and identify potential underlying conditions.

Laparoscopy

In some cases, a minimally invasive surgical procedure may be recommended to directly visualize the pelvic organs and diagnose conditions such as endometriosis.

Fertility testing

For women concerned about their fertility, additional tests such as ovulation prediction kits or follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels may be recommended.

The Impact of Ovulation Pain on Quality of Life

For some women, ovulation pain can significantly impact their daily lives and overall well-being. The effects may extend beyond physical discomfort and include:

• Disruption of work or social activities
• Emotional distress or anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Strain on intimate relationships
• Challenges in planning or participating in physical activities

It’s important for women experiencing recurrent or severe ovulation pain to discuss their concerns with a healthcare provider. Together, they can develop a comprehensive management plan that addresses both the physical symptoms and any associated quality of life issues.

Exploring Alternative and Complementary Approaches to Managing Ovulation Pain

In addition to conventional medical treatments, some women find relief from ovulation pain through alternative and complementary therapies. While scientific evidence for these approaches may be limited, some individuals report benefits from:

Acupuncture

This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and alleviate pain.

Herbal remedies

Certain herbs, such as chamomile, ginger, or cramp bark, are believed to have pain-relieving or anti-inflammatory properties. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before using any herbal supplements, as they may interact with medications or have unintended effects.

Dietary supplements

Some women find that supplements such as magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, or vitamin B6 help reduce menstrual and ovulation-related discomfort. Again, it’s important to discuss supplement use with a healthcare provider.

Yoga and gentle exercise

Certain yoga poses and low-impact exercises may help alleviate pelvic pain and promote relaxation. However, it’s essential to listen to your body and avoid any movements that exacerbate discomfort.

Aromatherapy

The use of essential oils, such as lavender or peppermint, may provide comfort and relaxation for some individuals experiencing ovulation pain.

While these alternative approaches may offer relief for some women, it’s important to remember that they should not replace professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating new therapies into your pain management routine.

The Role of Hormonal Contraceptives in Managing Ovulation Pain

For women experiencing severe or debilitating ovulation pain, hormonal contraceptives may offer an effective management option. These medications work by suppressing ovulation, thereby potentially eliminating or significantly reducing ovulation-related pain.

Types of hormonal contraceptives that may help with ovulation pain:

• Combined oral contraceptive pills
• Hormonal patches
• Vaginal rings
• Hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs)
• Injectable contraceptives

It’s important to note that while hormonal contraceptives can be highly effective in managing ovulation pain, they may not be suitable for all women. Factors such as age, medical history, and personal preferences should be considered when choosing a contraceptive method. A healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate option based on individual circumstances.

Ovulation Pain and Its Relationship to Other Menstrual Disorders

Ovulation pain may sometimes be associated with or exacerbated by other menstrual disorders. Understanding these connections can help in developing a comprehensive approach to managing reproductive health.

Endometriosis

This condition, characterized by the growth of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, can cause severe pelvic pain, including pain during ovulation. Women with endometriosis may experience more intense or prolonged ovulation pain compared to those without the condition.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can affect ovulation patterns. While some women with PCOS may experience less frequent ovulation, those who do ovulate may still experience ovulation pain.

Uterine fibroids

These non-cancerous growths in the uterus can cause pelvic pain and may intensify sensations associated with ovulation.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

This infection of the reproductive organs can cause chronic pelvic pain, which may be more noticeable during ovulation.

If you suspect that your ovulation pain may be related to an underlying menstrual disorder, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.

The Psychological Impact of Chronic Ovulation Pain

For women who experience severe or recurrent ovulation pain, the psychological impact can be significant. Chronic pain conditions can lead to:

• Depression and anxiety
• Feelings of frustration or helplessness
• Reduced self-esteem
• Social isolation
• Difficulties in maintaining relationships or work performance

Addressing the psychological aspects of chronic ovulation pain is an essential component of comprehensive care. Mental health support, such as counseling or cognitive-behavioral therapy, can be beneficial in developing coping strategies and improving overall quality of life.

Future Directions in Ovulation Pain Research and Treatment

As our understanding of reproductive health continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new avenues for diagnosing and treating ovulation pain. Some areas of ongoing investigation include:

Advanced imaging techniques

Improved imaging technologies may allow for more precise visualization of the ovulation process and associated pain mechanisms.

Targeted pain management strategies

Research into novel pain relief methods specifically designed for ovulation-related discomfort may lead to more effective treatment options.

Genetic factors

Investigating potential genetic predispositions to ovulation pain could help identify at-risk individuals and inform preventive strategies.

Microbiome influences

Exploring the relationship between the vaginal and gut microbiomes and reproductive health may yield new insights into ovulation pain and related conditions.

As research in these areas progresses, it’s likely that our approach to managing ovulation pain will become increasingly personalized and effective.

Understanding ovulation pain and its potential implications is crucial for maintaining optimal reproductive health. While many women experience mild and manageable discomfort during ovulation, it’s important to be aware of warning signs that may indicate a more serious underlying condition. By staying informed and proactive about their reproductive health, women can work with healthcare providers to develop effective strategies for managing ovulation pain and promoting overall well-being.

Ovulation pain – Better Health Channel

Summary

Read the full fact sheet

• About one in five women experience pain during ovulation that can last from a few minutes to 48 hours.
• Ovulation pain is usually harmless, but can sometimes indicate various medical conditions such as endometriosis.
• See your GP (doctor) if your ovulation pain lasts longer than three days or is associated with other unusual menstrual symptoms, such as heavy bleeding.

Up to 40% of women experience pain during ovulation. Ovulation pain is usually harmless, but severe pain may indicate other health conditions. It’s good to know there are many practical ways to manage ovulation pain.

What is ovulation?

Ovulation is part of the female menstrual cycle. An egg is released from an ovary and moves along a fallopian tube towards your uterus.

When does ovulation happen?

Ovulation usually happens once each month, around two weeks before your next period.

Ovulation does not happen if you are:

• on the contraception pill
• pregnant
• postmenopausal.

Some women do not ovulate regularly. This is common when you first start getting your periods. It can also happen during perimenopause (the lead-up to menopause). Hormone conditions can also affect ovulation (e.g. polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)).

Symptoms of ovulation pain

Up to 40% of women experience pain and discomfort during ovulation. The pain can last from a few minutes to 48 hours.

Women may experience different symptoms of ovulation pain, including uncomfortable pressure, twinges, sharp pains, cramps or strong pain in the lower abdomen.

What causes ovulation pain?

We don’t know exactly what causes ovulation pain, but it may be caused by:

• the surface of the ovary swelling before the egg is released
• the egg being released from a mature follicle (the sac containing an egg).

Getting a diagnosis

In most cases, ovulation pain is harmless. But severe pain in the lower abdomen might mean you have other health conditions (e.g. endometriosis, appendicitis or pelvic inflammatory disease).

Your GP (doctor) may ask about your medical history and do a physical examination to find the cause of your pain. They might also do some tests. For example:

• blood tests
• swabs from the cervix for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other bacteria
• an abdominal ultrasound
• a vaginal ultrasound (preferably at the time the pain is occurring)
• exploratory surgery (a laparoscopy or ‘keyhole’ surgery).

Managing ovulation pain

There are many practical ways to manage ovulation pain.

For example, you can:

• relax by having a warm bath, or rest in bed with a heat pack or hot water bottle
• use pain relief or period pain medication (e.g. anti-inflammatories) – ask your GP (doctor) or pharmacist for recommendations
• take the contraceptive pill or other forms of hormonal contraception, as they stop ovulation.

When to see your doctor

See your GP (doctor) if your ovulation pain lasts longer than three days or if it is associated with symptoms such as heavy bleeding or vaginal discharge.

For more detailed information, related resources, articles and podcasts, visit Jean Hailes for Women’s HealthExternal Link.

Where to get help

• Your GPExternal Link
• Gynaecologist
• Jean Hailes for Women’s HealthExternal Link
• Women’s health clinic
• Sexual Health VictoriaExternal Link Tel. (03) 9257 0100

• T. Cornforth, T 2017, Mittelschmerz pain between periodsExternal Link, verywellhealth, USA.
• C O’Herlihy, HP Robinson, L De Crespigny. Mittelschmerz is a preovulatory symptom. Br Med J. 1980 Apr 5;280(6219):986.
• eMedicine Consumer HealthExternal Link.

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Why It Shouldn’t Be Ignored and When to Get Help

Some people may feel pain during ovulation. But other health conditions, such as cysts or endometriosis, can also cause pain during ovulation and may require medical attention.

Ovulation is a critical part of reproduction. Not every person who menstruates will feel ovulation when it occurs, but it can be very painful for others.

Though the sensation isn’t necessarily a cause for alarm, you shouldn’t ignore ovulation pain — it can be a sign of something more serious.

Here’s what you need to know:

In most cases, ovulation discomfort is brief and harmless. You may notice one-sided pain for a few minutes or even a couple hours on your day of suspected ovulation.

Ovulation involves a follicular cyst swelling and then rupturing to release the egg after a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) goes through your body.

After the egg is released, the fallopian tube contracts to help it reach awaiting sperm for fertilization. Blood and other fluid from the ruptured follicle may also enter the abdominal cavity and pelvis during this process and cause irritation.

The sensation can range from a dull ache to sharp twinges. It may be accompanied by spotting or other discharge. If your pain becomes severe or happens at other points in your cycle, check in with your doctor.

There are several other reasons why you might be experiencing pain during your cycle.

Try keeping track of when and where you feel the discomfort, how long it lasts, and any other associated symptoms. Keeping a record can help you and your doctor figure out the underlying cause.

If your midcycle pain persists, your doctor can perform different tests to identify the source and offer treatment to help.

Cysts

An ovarian cyst can cause a number of symptoms, from cramping and nausea, to bloating. Some cysts may cause no symptoms at all.

Dermoid cysts, cystadenomas, and endometriomas are other, less common types of cysts that might cause pain.

Another condition called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is marked by many small cysts on the ovaries. Untreated PCOS can cause infertility.

Your doctor may order a CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound to help determine if you have a cyst and what type it is. Many cysts resolve on their own without medical intervention.

If they grow or are abnormal, though, cysts can lead to complications and may need to be removed.

Endometriosis or adhesions

Endometriosis is a painful condition where tissue similar to the inner lining of the uterus grows outside the uterine cavity.

Areas affected become irritated when the lining tissue responds to hormones during your cycle, causing bleeding and inflammation outside of the uterus. You may develop scar tissue or endometriosis adhesions that are particularly painful during your period.

Likewise, intrauterine adhesions, also known as Asherman syndrome, can develop if you’ve had previous surgery. This includes a dilation and curettage (D & C) or cesarean delivery.

A prior infection in the uterus can also cause these adhesions. You can also develop Asherman syndrome with no known cause.

Since doctors can’t see these conditions during a routine ultrasound, your doctor may order a hysteroscopy or laparoscopy. These are surgical procedures that let doctors see directly inside your uterus or pelvis.

Infection or sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Is your pain accompanied by unusual or foul-smelling discharge? Do you have a fever? Do you feel burning when you urinate?

These symptoms might indicate a bacterial infection or a sexually transmitted infections (STI) that needs urgent medical attention.

Medical procedures — or even childbirth — can cause infections. Sometimes a urinary tract infection (UTI) might even cause general pelvic pain.

STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and human papillomavirus (HPV) are contracted from condomless sex.

Ectopic pregnancy

One-sided pelvic pain could be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy.

This occurs when an embryo implants in the fallopian tubes or other location outside of the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy is potentially life-threatening and is usually discovered by the eighth week.

If you think you might be pregnant, see your doctor immediately. If you have an ectopic pregnancy, you’ll require immediate treatment with medication or surgery to prevent your fallopian tube from rupturing.

If you’ve visited your doctor and ruled out any issues, you’re likely experiencing normal ovulation discomfort. Continue to pay attention to any changes in your symptoms.

Here are some things you can do to ease the discomfort of midcycle pain:

• Try over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Midol) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn).
• Ask your doctor about birth control pills to prevent ovulation.
• Apply a heating pad to the affected area, or take a hot bath.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends women from ages 21 to 29 have a Pap smear to screen for cervical cancer every 3 years.

ACOG also recommends women ages 30 to 65 have either a Pap smear every 3 years, or a Pap smear with an HPV test every 5 years.

Women over 65, according to ACOG, don’t need to have cervical screening unless they have a history of:

• abnormal cervical cells
• a number of abnormal Pap test results in the past
• cervical cancer

All people who menstruate should also have a yearly wellness visit with their gynecologist for a full pelvic exam and to discuss any other concerns about their gynecological health.

Yearly exams are recommended, even though you might not need a Pap smear each time. If you’re overdue for your visit or are having pain and other symptoms, call your doctor today.

For many people who menstruate, midcycle pain is simply a sign of ovulation. There are several other conditions that can cause pelvic pain, some of which are serious if left untreated.

It’s always a good idea to pay attention to your body and report anything new or different to your healthcare provider.

Read this article in Spanish.

Painful ovulation – normal or disease

Pain in the middle of the cycle, ovulatory syndrome – occurs in every fifth woman.

Mittelschmerz (pain in the middle of the cycle) was described in medical periodicals as early as 1940.

How can ovulatory syndrome manifest itself?

During ovulation, a woman may experience a dull, sudden sharp or cramping pain in the lower abdomen. In this case, pain can be localized to the right or left, depending on which ovary ovulation occurs.

Pain may radiate to the lumbar region, sacrum, or groin and may be aggravated by strenuous exercise, sudden changes in body position, and sexual intercourse. These days, pain may be accompanied (or appear independently) by mild bloody discharge from the genital tract.

In addition, some women experience weakness, rarely nausea and even vomiting.

For some women, pain may accompany every ovulation, for others it may occur occasionally.

The duration of pain can vary from a few minutes to 24 hours, but no more. This is one of the features that distinguishes “ovulatory syndrome is not a disease” from gynecological diseases (endometriosis, inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs), manifested by pain.

What causes pain and spotting in the middle of the cycle?

The causes of pain during ovulation are:

• damage to the ovary wall at the time of ovulation
• irritation of the inner lining of the abdomen, resulting from the reflux of a small amount of blood from a burst follicle into the pelvic cavity.
• low pain threshold. Most women are able to easily tolerate unpleasant symptoms, but sometimes hypersensitivity can provoke subjective pain.

Minor spotting is caused by the sudden change in sex hormone levels that accompanies ovulation.

Illness or not and what to do about it?

A natural question arises: “If ovulation is a physiological process, why is it accompanied by pain?”

According to an incomprehensible idea of ​​nature in women, pain often accompanies many physiological (menstruation, childbirth) processes. Pain is associated with participation in events such as menstruation and ovulation of inflammatory substances (cytokines) and spasm of small vessels. The peculiarities of the exchange of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as individual sensitivity to pain, explain the fact that some women do not feel ovulation at all, while others experience significant discomfort during a certain period of their life.

In the case of ovulatory syndrome, the line between the norm and the disease is very thin.

To answer the question of whether pain in the middle of the cycle is a problem requiring treatment, it is necessary to conduct an examination. Valuable information in this case is provided by ultrasound of the pelvic organs, which allows an experienced specialist to determine with high accuracy the presence or absence of such probable causes of pain as endometriosis, inflammatory tumors of the small pelvis, adhesive disease of the pelvic organs, functional ovarian cysts, tumors, anomalies in the development of the genital organs and other.

According to individual indications, the gynecologist can prescribe microbiological and hormonal tests.

So, if gynecological diseases are excluded, this is ovulatory syndrome.

If the pain associated with ovulation is mild, there is usually no need for treatment.

If the pain associated with ovulation is limiting your activities, your gynecologist will help you find the treatment that is best for you at that time in your life (pain medications and other options).

So is it necessary to go to the gynecologist for periodic or systematic pain in the middle of the cycle? – Definitely YES!

As already mentioned, ovulatory syndrome is a diagnosis of exclusion: you need to conduct an examination to make sure that the cause of pain is not a gynecological pathology.

The experience of our specialists shows, especially in severe pain syndrome, a thorough examination using modern ultrasound devices, less often hysteroscopy allows us to identify previously undiagnosed problems: endometriosis, associated or unrelated adhesive process in the small pelvis, rare anomalies in the development of the genital organs.

Moreover, our experience with women with ovulatory syndrome shows that in the absence of endometriosis, adhesions and other morphological problems, hormonal imbalance is a common cause of pain, the correction of which led to a significant improvement in the quality of life of patients.

Does ovulatory syndrome affect the possibility of getting pregnant?

No evidence that mid-cycle pain impairs fertility or adversely affects pregnancy .

Can ovulation pain be used to determine fertile days?

Only in combination with other signs (changes in cervical mucus, safe days method, basal temperature) and only with regular menstrual cycle.

If there is no more pain, does this mean that ovulation has stopped?

Not at all if the regular cycle is maintained. Most likely, due to some changes in the body, the pain stopped.

why it occurs, causes, what to do and how to treat

Discomfort in the lower abdomen can haunt a woman not only during menstruation. One in five people experience ovulatory syndrome. This is when discomfort occurs in the middle of the cycle and can be sudden, acute or marked in the form of spasms. Read about why pain occurs during ovulation, how to deal with it, and when to see a doctor.

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Causes of pain

ovulation

To understand the symptoms and causes of their occurrence, it is worthwhile to understand whether the pain during ovulation is typical and what happens to the female body during this period.

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.

How does the process of ovulation occur and can the stomach hurt at the same time?

Ovulation is the release of a developed egg from the ovary into the fallopian tube. It does not pass in every menstrual cycle and pain on the days of ovulation is a fairly common occurrence. Attachment of the fetal egg occurs 6-12 days after ovulation. As a rule, only one egg is released from the ovary during one ovulation.

Ovulation can be determined in several ways:

• using a calendar;
• using basal temperature charts;
• a special test from a pharmacy;
• Ultrasound.

Many women additionally focus on their well-being: during ovulation, many have pain in the lower abdomen. Of course, this sign cannot be considered the main one, it only supplements the data of the calendar, test or ultrasound. Determining the date of ovulation helps to plan the conception of a child, or to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

If fertilization does not occur during ovulation, the egg is absorbed by the lining of the uterus and is later expelled from the body during menstruation. After that, a new egg begins to mature in the ovary.

If the menstrual cycle is stable and lasts 28 days, ovulation will begin on days 10-12. The occurrence of ovulation may be accompanied by mild, less often strong, aching, pulling or dull pains in the lower abdomen. This is not such a rare problem: on women’s forums, questions about unpleasant discomfort arise with frightening regularity. Someone shares that after ovulation, the stomach didn’t hurt at all, and someone has to stock up on analgesics in anticipation of the middle of the cycle.

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Pain during ovulation and other symptoms

During ovulation, the lower abdomen often hurts, depending on the activity of the ovaries: on the left or right side. Sometimes there are sharp mood swings that accompany tearfulness, irritability and irritability. Thus, the body signals that it is ready for conception.

Another typical symptom is discharge from the vulva, which is stretchy and slippery. They have the appearance of raw egg white, usually odorless, do not cause itching and irritation. Their color may change. In medicine, this is called cervical mucus. Discharge does not depend on whether the stomach hurts during ovulation or not.

Attention! If the discharge is accompanied by a pungent odor, burning, pain in the lower abdomen. At the same time, they acquire dark red, green or yellow hues. You need to see a doctor immediately. Such discharges are not normal and may indicate the development of a disease or an inflammatory process. The doctor will determine the cause of their occurrence and prescribe adequate treatment.

A relatively rare symptom is if the chest hurts after ovulation. But it still happens that during this period there are unpleasant sensations in the area of ​​​​the mammary glands, the shade of the nipples changes. This is due to the swelling of the mammary glands. You should not be afraid of this symptom, such an indisposition is acceptable.

How common are ovulation pains and how dangerous are they

Slight pain before and during ovulation is not a dangerous symptom and in most cases does not pose any threat to the body. However, if you have not noticed such a condition before or the discomfort has become much more intense, you should contact a specialist. In these cases, the body may signal the onset of a serious illness. Below we have listed the symptoms that you should definitely pay attention to.

Not all women have pain in the lower abdomen after ovulation. In some cases, pain may radiate to the lower back. And sometimes the release of an egg from the ovary is extremely unpleasant and deprives women of working capacity, sometimes even leads to loss of consciousness.

Why does the stomach hurt before ovulation

The discomfort before the process begins is explained as follows. Pain before ovulation can occur when the vessels at the base of the follicle rupture when the egg is released. A hemorrhage occurs, the uterus begins to contract when fluid from the follicle enters it, which causes pain just below the navel. This is the most common cause for discomfort.

But its appearance can also be an indicator of the development of various diseases. It is better not to self-medicate and you should not delay a visit to the doctor. If you are worried about pain during ovulation in the lower abdomen, you should discuss this issue with a gynecologist.

1. “Middle” pain

Most often, during ovulation, the lower abdomen hurts, and discomfort occurs only on one side, and this side can change in different cycles. Unpleasant sensations last from a few minutes to half an hour, may be accompanied by bloating and mild nausea. In medicine, it is called the German term Mittelschmerz (“middle” pain).

How to get rid of: if the sensations pass and the pain is not too severe, a warm bath and painkiller tablets are sufficient. If your health leaves much to be desired and literally folds you in half, it is better to meet with a doctor and discuss why pain occurs during ovulation. It may be worth discussing the use of low-dose hormonal contraceptives.

2. Polycystic ovaries

In cases where the critical days are long and irregular, and there is a lot of hair on the body, the fact that you have a stomachache after ovulation may signal polycystic ovaries. Complications can be serious, from infertility to cancer, so you should see a doctor.

How to get rid of: after diagnosis, treatment varies, but usually includes a special diet and hormonal medication. If the treatment is chosen correctly, the stomach will no longer hurt after ovulation.

3. Inflammatory diseases of the pelvis

Often pain in the lower abdomen after ovulation is the result of an infection such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. Before or during the process, discomfort in the pelvis is noted, which can even lead to hospitalization.

How to get rid of: most often the doctor prescribes antibiotics, and the infection goes away with pain.

4. Pain after caesarean section

It leaves a scar in any case, and pain can occur in that area during ovulation for a year after childbirth. In this case, the problem is not in the ovary, but in the scar itself, so the nature of the discomfort is different.