What are the main causes of ovarian pain and spotting. How are ovarian conditions diagnosed. What treatment options are available for ovarian pain and related symptoms. When should you see a doctor about ovarian pain.

Understanding Ovarian Pain: Symptoms and Characteristics

Ovarian pain can manifest in various ways, affecting women’s daily lives and reproductive health. The ovaries, crucial components of the female reproductive system, are responsible for hormone production and egg release. When pain occurs in this area, it’s essential to understand its nature and potential causes.

Ovarian pain is typically felt in the lower abdomen, below the belly button, and in the pelvic region. It can be categorized as either acute or chronic:

• Acute ovarian pain: Develops rapidly (within minutes or days) and resolves quickly
• Chronic ovarian pain: Begins gradually and persists for several months or longer

The intensity of ovarian pain can vary significantly, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with daily activities. Some women experience continuous pain, while others may have intermittent episodes. Certain activities, such as exercise or urination, may exacerbate the pain.

5 Common Causes of Ovarian Pain and Spotting

Several conditions can lead to ovarian pain and associated symptoms like spotting. Understanding these causes is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Here are five common culprits:

1. Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form within or on the surface of the ovaries. They are prevalent among women of reproductive age and often develop during the ovulation process. While many cysts are harmless and resolve on their own, some can cause pain and other symptoms.

Symptoms of ovarian cysts may include:

• Dull ache or sharp pain in the lower abdomen
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Pain during intercourse or bowel movements
• Nausea or vomiting
• Feeling full after eating small amounts
• Bloating

2. Ovarian Tumors

Ovarian tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). They may cause pain and various other symptoms, including:

• Bloating or pressure in the abdomen
• Urgent need to urinate
• Indigestion
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly
• Unintentional weight loss or gain in the stomach area

3. Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often affecting the ovaries. This condition can cause severe pain, especially during menstruation, and may lead to spotting between periods.

4. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

PID is an infection of the reproductive organs, often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria. It can lead to ovarian pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, and irregular bleeding or spotting.

5. Ovarian Remnant Syndrome

This rare condition occurs when ovarian tissue is left behind after an oophorectomy (surgical removal of the ovaries). The remaining tissue can cause pain and continue to function, potentially leading to the formation of cysts or endometriosis.

Diagnosing Ovarian Pain: Medical Approaches and Tests

When a woman experiences ovarian pain, proper diagnosis is crucial for determining the underlying cause and developing an appropriate treatment plan. Healthcare providers employ various methods to diagnose ovarian conditions:

Medical History and Physical Examination

The diagnostic process typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Your doctor will ask detailed questions about your pain, such as:

• Where exactly do you feel the pain?
• When did the pain start?
• How often do you experience pain?
• Does any activity make the pain better or worse?
• How would you describe the pain (e.g., mild, burning, achy, sharp)?
• How does the pain affect your daily life?

Imaging Studies

Various imaging techniques can help visualize the ovaries and surrounding structures:

1. Ultrasound: This non-invasive scan uses sound waves to create images of the ovaries, helping detect cysts, tumors, or other abnormalities.
2. Computed Tomography (CT): A CT scan provides detailed cross-sectional images of the pelvic area, useful for identifying larger masses or complications.
3. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI scans offer high-resolution images of soft tissues, helping diagnose conditions like endometriosis or complex ovarian cysts.
4. Positron Emission Tomography (PET): This imaging technique can be particularly useful in detecting and staging ovarian cancer.

Blood Tests

Certain blood tests can provide valuable information in diagnosing ovarian conditions:

• CA-125: This test measures levels of a protein that may be elevated in some women with ovarian cancer. However, it’s important to note that CA-125 is not effective as a standalone screening test for ovarian cancer.
• Hormone levels: Testing for hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone can help identify hormonal imbalances that may contribute to ovarian pain.

Laparoscopy

In some cases, a minimally invasive surgical procedure called laparoscopy may be necessary for diagnosis. This technique allows the doctor to directly visualize the ovaries and surrounding tissues, potentially identifying conditions like endometriosis or small tumors that may not be visible on imaging studies.

Treatment Options for Ovarian Pain and Related Conditions

The treatment approach for ovarian pain depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Here are some common treatment options for various ovarian conditions:

Conservative Management

For mild cases or conditions that may resolve on their own, such as small ovarian cysts, your doctor may recommend:

• Watchful waiting: Regular monitoring to see if the condition improves without intervention
• Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications to alleviate discomfort
• Lifestyle modifications: Dietary changes, stress reduction techniques, or exercise to help manage symptoms

Hormonal Treatments

Hormonal therapies can be effective for various ovarian conditions:

• Birth control pills: These can help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce the formation of new cysts, and alleviate pain associated with conditions like endometriosis
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists: These medications can temporarily induce a menopausal state, which may help shrink endometriosis lesions or uterine fibroids

Surgical Interventions

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat ovarian conditions:

1. Laparoscopy: This minimally invasive technique can be used to remove small cysts, treat endometriosis, or diagnose certain conditions
2. Laparotomy: For larger tumors or more complex cases, a traditional open surgery may be required
3. Oophorectomy: In severe cases or for certain cancers, removal of one or both ovaries may be necessary

Cancer Treatments

If ovarian cancer is diagnosed, treatment may involve a combination of:

• Surgery to remove the tumor and affected tissues
• Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells
• Radiation therapy to target specific areas of cancer
• Targeted therapies that focus on specific genetic mutations or characteristics of the cancer cells

Preventing Ovarian Pain and Maintaining Ovarian Health

While not all causes of ovarian pain are preventable, there are steps women can take to promote ovarian health and potentially reduce the risk of certain conditions:

Regular Check-ups

Scheduling regular gynecological exams can help detect potential issues early. During these visits, your healthcare provider can perform pelvic exams and discuss any concerns you may have about your reproductive health.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can contribute to overall reproductive health:

• Balanced diet: Consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support hormonal balance and overall health
• Regular exercise: Physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of certain ovarian conditions
• Stress management: Chronic stress can affect hormonal balance, so incorporating stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga may be beneficial

Safe Sexual Practices

Practicing safe sex and getting regular STI screenings can help prevent conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease, which can lead to ovarian pain and complications.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Ovarian Pain

While occasional mild discomfort in the pelvic area can be normal, certain symptoms warrant prompt medical attention. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Sudden, severe abdominal or pelvic pain
• Pain accompanied by fever or vomiting
• Changes in menstrual patterns or abnormal bleeding
• Persistent pain that interferes with daily activities
• Pain during intercourse or urination
• Unexplained weight loss or gain
• Bloating or abdominal swelling that doesn’t go away

Early detection and treatment of ovarian conditions can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if you have concerns about ovarian pain or any changes in your reproductive health.

Future Directions in Ovarian Pain Research and Treatment

As medical science advances, researchers continue to explore new avenues for understanding, diagnosing, and treating ovarian pain and related conditions. Some promising areas of research include:

Improved Diagnostic Tools

Scientists are working on developing more sensitive and specific diagnostic tests for various ovarian conditions, including:

• Advanced imaging techniques that can detect smaller lesions or early-stage cancers
• Blood-based biomarkers that may help identify ovarian cancer at earlier stages
• Artificial intelligence algorithms to assist in interpreting imaging studies and predicting disease progression

Targeted Therapies

Research is ongoing to develop more precise treatments that target specific molecular pathways involved in ovarian conditions:

• Personalized medicine approaches that tailor treatments based on an individual’s genetic profile
• Immunotherapies that harness the body’s immune system to fight ovarian cancer
• Novel drug delivery systems that can more effectively target ovarian tissues while minimizing side effects

Fertility Preservation Techniques

For women facing treatments that may affect their fertility, such as certain cancer therapies, researchers are exploring improved methods for preserving fertility, including:

• Advanced egg and embryo freezing techniques
• Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation
• In vitro maturation of immature eggs

As research progresses, these advancements may lead to more effective prevention strategies, earlier detection of ovarian conditions, and improved treatment outcomes for women experiencing ovarian pain and related symptoms.

5 Causes of Pain In Ovaries, Diagnosis, Treatment

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Ovarian Cysts
• Ovarian Tumors
• Ovarian Pain Caused by Endometriosis
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
• Ovarian Remnant Syndrome

The ovaries are an important part of the female reproductive system. Their job is twofold. They produce the hormones, including estrogen, that trigger menstruation. Their function is also to release at least one egg each month for possible fertilization.

A number of different conditions, from cysts to tumors, can cause ovarian pain. The ovaries are located in the lower abdomen. That means if you have ovarian pain, you’ll most likely feel it in your lower abdomen — below your belly button — and pelvis. It’s important to have any pelvic pain checked out by your regular doctor or obstetrician/gynecologist. Several different conditions can cause it.

Pain in the ovaries can either be acute or chronic. Acute ovarian pain comes on quickly (over a few minutes or days) and goes away in a short period of time. Chronic ovarian pain usually starts more gradually. Then it lasts for several months or longer.

Ovarian pain may be continuous. Or it may come and go. It may get worse with certain activities, such as exercise or urination. It can be so mild that you hardly notice it. Or pain in the ovaries can be so severe that it interferes with daily life.

The methods your doctor uses to diagnose ovarian pain will vary. They will be based on what the suspected cause might be. Regardless, your doctor will take a complete medical history, do a physical exam, and ask questions about your pain. The questions might include:

• Where are you feeling the pain?
• When did it start?
• How often do you feel pain?
• Does an activity make the pain better or worse?
• How does it feel — mild, burning, achy, sharp?
• How does the pain affect your day-to-day life?

Diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound and other types of imaging, can zero in on the cause of the pain. Here is a rundown of some possible causes of ovarian pain and how they are diagnosed and treated.

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form in the ovaries. They are very common in women, especially during the childbearing years. Often they form during the process of ovulation. It can happen when the egg is not released or when the sac — follicle — holding the egg doesn’t dissolve after the egg is released. Ovarian cysts usually cause no symptoms and dissolve on their own. They can, though, create a dull ache or a sharp pain if the cyst is large and it ruptures.

Other symptoms of ovarian cysts:

• Irregular menstrual periods
• Pain during intercourse or bowel movements
• Nausea or vomiting
• Feeling full after eating a small amount
• Bloating

How ovarian cysts are diagnosed

• Pelvic exam. This exam may reveal a lump in the pelvic area.
• Ultrasound. This scan uses sound waves to create an image of the ovaries. This helps the doctor determine the size and location of a cyst.

Treatment of ovarian cysts

• Watchful waiting. Most ovarian cysts will go away on their own. If you don’t have any bothersome symptoms, especially if you haven’t yet gone through menopause, your doctor may advocate “watchful waiting.” The doctor won’t treat you. Instead, the doctor might check you periodically to see if there has been any change in your condition.
• Laparoscopy. This is a form of surgery that uses small incisions and a tiny, lighted camera on the end of a metal tube that’s inserted into the abdomen to remove small cysts. Larger cysts may need to be removed through a bigger incision in the abdomen. This is done with a technique called laparotomy.
• Birth control pills.Birth control pills prevent ovulation. That, in turn, reduces the formation of new cysts.

Tumors can form in the ovaries, just as they form in other parts of the body. They can be either noncancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant).

Other symptoms of ovarian tumors

• Bloating or pressure in the abdomen
• Urgent need to urinate
• Indigestion
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Loss of appetite/feeling full
• Unintentional weight loss or gain in the stomach area

How ovarian tumors are diagnosed

• Computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography(PET). These are detailed imaging scans that the doctor can use to find ovarian tumors. They allow the doctor to determine whether and how far the ovarian tumors have spread.
• CA-125. This is a blood test to look for a protein that tends to be higher in some (but not all) women with ovarian cancer. CA-125 isn’t effective as a screening test for ovarian cancer. But it can be checked in women with symptoms that might be caused by ovarian cancer.
• Ultrasound may also aid in the diagnosis of ovarian tumors.  

Treatment of ovarian tumors

• Laparotomy. This is surgery performed through an incision into the abdomen. The surgeon will remove as much of the tumor as possible. The removal of tumor tissue is called debulking. If the tumor is cancerous and has spread, the surgeon may also remove the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, omentum (fatty tissue covering the intestines), and nearby lymph nodes. Laparoscopy and robotic surgery may also be used.
• Chemotherapy.Chemotherapy involves drugs given through a vein (IV), by mouth, or directly into the abdomen. The drugs kill cancer cells. Because they kill normal cells as well, chemotherapy medications can have side effects. These can include nausea and vomiting, hair loss, kidney damage, and increased risk of infection. These side effects should go away after the treatment is stopped.
• Radiation. This treatment uses high-energy X-rays to kill or shrink cancer cells. Radiation is either delivered from outside the body, or placed inside the body near the site of the tumor. This treatment also can cause side effects. These can include inflamed skin, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. Radiation is not often used to treat ovarian cancer.

Learn more about the types of ovarian tumors.

Every month, the lining of the uterus builds up in preparation to nourish a growing fetus. When an egg is not fertilized, that lining sheds and is released from the body via menstruation. In some women, tissue like the lining of the uterus develops elsewhere in the body. This tissue swells and bleeds each month. It has nowhere to shed, though, and may form scar tissue that can be very painful.

Other symptoms of endometriosis

• Painful periods
• Pain during intercourse
• Heavy menstrual periods
• Infertility
• Pain with bowel movements

How endometriosis is diagnosed

• Medical history and physical exam.
• Ultrasound and MRI. These scans may help the doctor to spot endometriosis, if there is an endometrioma, a benign cyst, on the ovary or ovaries.
• Laparoscopy. This procedure uses a thin lighted scope inserted into a tiny hole in the abdomen to allow the doctor to visualize the ovaries. The doctor may possibly remove a small sample of tissue for biopsy, a procedure in which the large lesions of endometriosis may also be removed. 

Treatment of endometriosis

• Pain medications. Drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help relieve some of the discomfort of endometriosis.
• Birth control pills. The pill suppresses the monthly buildup of endometrial tissue on the ovaries and anywhere else the endometriosis may be in the abdomen and pelvis. This makes periods lighter and reduces the symptoms of endometriosis.
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH agonists). These drugs reduce the amount of the hormone estrogen in the body. By slowing the growth of endometriosis, they limit its symptoms.
• Laparoscopy and laparotomy. These are surgical procedures that let the doctor remove endometriosis on the ovaries and other places. If the endometriosis is extensive, the doctor may recommend a hysterectomy. This procedure removes the uterus and sometimes also the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Learn more about laparoscopic surgery to treat endometriosis.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection in the ovaries, uterus, or fallopian tubes. It is most often caused by sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea or chlamydia. It is one of the most common causes of pelvic pain in women.

Other symptoms of PID

• Pain during intercourse
• Fever
• Vaginal discharge that may have a smell
• Irregular menstrual bleeding
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Difficulty urinating

How PID is diagnosed

• Pelvic exam. The exam will enable your doctor to look for any lumps, abnormal discharge, or tenderness in the pelvis.
• Blood and urine tests. These lab tests can help identify the infection. So can cultures of any discharge seen during a pelvic exam.
• Ultrasound. This test creates an image of the pelvic area so the doctor can see if the reproductive organs are enlarged. The doctor can also see if there is a pocket of infection known as an abscess.
• Laparoscopy. Occasionally this procedure, which uses a thin lighted scope inserted into a tiny hole in the abdomen, is used to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of PID

Antibiotics. These drugs are given by mouth or through an injection. They can kill the bacteria that are causing PID. If you are taking antibiotics for PID, your sexual partner or partners should also get treated. There is a high likelihood that your partner has the same sexually transmitted infection. Learn more about the treatments for pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

Surgery to remove the uterus and ovaries is known as hysterectomy and oophorectomy. A bilateral salping- oophorectomy is a procedure in which both fallopian tubes and ovaries are removed. In rare cases, a small piece of the ovary may accidentally be left behind. The remnant can grow and develop painful cysts.

Other symptoms of ovarian remnant syndrome

• Pain during intercourse
• Difficulty urinating

How ovarian remnant syndrome is diagnosed

Ultrasound, CT, and MRI. These scans create images of the area. They help the doctor locate the remaining piece of ovary tissue.

Treatment of ovarian remnant syndrome

Laparotomy or laparoscopy. These procedures are done to remove the remaining piece or pieces of ovary. Learn more about ovary removal surgery.

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5 Causes of Pain In Ovaries, Diagnosis, Treatment

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Ovarian Cysts
• Ovarian Tumors
• Ovarian Pain Caused by Endometriosis
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
• Ovarian Remnant Syndrome

The ovaries are an important part of the female reproductive system. Their job is twofold. They produce the hormones, including estrogen, that trigger menstruation. Their function is also to release at least one egg each month for possible fertilization.

A number of different conditions, from cysts to tumors, can cause ovarian pain. The ovaries are located in the lower abdomen. That means if you have ovarian pain, you’ll most likely feel it in your lower abdomen — below your belly button — and pelvis. It’s important to have any pelvic pain checked out by your regular doctor or obstetrician/gynecologist. Several different conditions can cause it.

Pain in the ovaries can either be acute or chronic. Acute ovarian pain comes on quickly (over a few minutes or days) and goes away in a short period of time. Chronic ovarian pain usually starts more gradually. Then it lasts for several months or longer.

Ovarian pain may be continuous. Or it may come and go. It may get worse with certain activities, such as exercise or urination. It can be so mild that you hardly notice it. Or pain in the ovaries can be so severe that it interferes with daily life.

The methods your doctor uses to diagnose ovarian pain will vary. They will be based on what the suspected cause might be. Regardless, your doctor will take a complete medical history, do a physical exam, and ask questions about your pain. The questions might include:

• Where are you feeling the pain?
• When did it start?
• How often do you feel pain?
• Does an activity make the pain better or worse?
• How does it feel — mild, burning, achy, sharp?
• How does the pain affect your day-to-day life?

Diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound and other types of imaging, can zero in on the cause of the pain. Here is a rundown of some possible causes of ovarian pain and how they are diagnosed and treated.

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form in the ovaries. They are very common in women, especially during the childbearing years. Often they form during the process of ovulation. It can happen when the egg is not released or when the sac — follicle — holding the egg doesn’t dissolve after the egg is released. Ovarian cysts usually cause no symptoms and dissolve on their own. They can, though, create a dull ache or a sharp pain if the cyst is large and it ruptures.

Other symptoms of ovarian cysts:

• Irregular menstrual periods
• Pain during intercourse or bowel movements
• Nausea or vomiting
• Feeling full after eating a small amount
• Bloating

How ovarian cysts are diagnosed

• Pelvic exam. This exam may reveal a lump in the pelvic area.
• Ultrasound. This scan uses sound waves to create an image of the ovaries. This helps the doctor determine the size and location of a cyst.

Treatment of ovarian cysts

• Watchful waiting. Most ovarian cysts will go away on their own. If you don’t have any bothersome symptoms, especially if you haven’t yet gone through menopause, your doctor may advocate “watchful waiting.” The doctor won’t treat you. Instead, the doctor might check you periodically to see if there has been any change in your condition.
• Laparoscopy. This is a form of surgery that uses small incisions and a tiny, lighted camera on the end of a metal tube that’s inserted into the abdomen to remove small cysts. Larger cysts may need to be removed through a bigger incision in the abdomen. This is done with a technique called laparotomy.
• Birth control pills.Birth control pills prevent ovulation. That, in turn, reduces the formation of new cysts.

Tumors can form in the ovaries, just as they form in other parts of the body. They can be either noncancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant).

Other symptoms of ovarian tumors

• Bloating or pressure in the abdomen
• Urgent need to urinate
• Indigestion
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Loss of appetite/feeling full
• Unintentional weight loss or gain in the stomach area

How ovarian tumors are diagnosed

• Computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography(PET). These are detailed imaging scans that the doctor can use to find ovarian tumors. They allow the doctor to determine whether and how far the ovarian tumors have spread.
• CA-125. This is a blood test to look for a protein that tends to be higher in some (but not all) women with ovarian cancer. CA-125 isn’t effective as a screening test for ovarian cancer. But it can be checked in women with symptoms that might be caused by ovarian cancer.
• Ultrasound may also aid in the diagnosis of ovarian tumors. 

Treatment of ovarian tumors

• Laparotomy. This is surgery performed through an incision into the abdomen. The surgeon will remove as much of the tumor as possible. The removal of tumor tissue is called debulking. If the tumor is cancerous and has spread, the surgeon may also remove the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, omentum (fatty tissue covering the intestines), and nearby lymph nodes. Laparoscopy and robotic surgery may also be used.
• Chemotherapy.Chemotherapy involves drugs given through a vein (IV), by mouth, or directly into the abdomen. The drugs kill cancer cells. Because they kill normal cells as well, chemotherapy medications can have side effects. These can include nausea and vomiting, hair loss, kidney damage, and increased risk of infection. These side effects should go away after the treatment is stopped.
• Radiation. This treatment uses high-energy X-rays to kill or shrink cancer cells. Radiation is either delivered from outside the body, or placed inside the body near the site of the tumor. This treatment also can cause side effects. These can include inflamed skin, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. Radiation is not often used to treat ovarian cancer.

Learn more about the types of ovarian tumors.

Every month, the lining of the uterus builds up in preparation to nourish a growing fetus. When an egg is not fertilized, that lining sheds and is released from the body via menstruation. In some women, tissue like the lining of the uterus develops elsewhere in the body. This tissue swells and bleeds each month. It has nowhere to shed, though, and may form scar tissue that can be very painful.

Other symptoms of endometriosis

• Painful periods
• Pain during intercourse
• Heavy menstrual periods
• Infertility
• Pain with bowel movements

How endometriosis is diagnosed

• Medical history and physical exam.
• Ultrasound and MRI. These scans may help the doctor to spot endometriosis, if there is an endometrioma, a benign cyst, on the ovary or ovaries.
• Laparoscopy. This procedure uses a thin lighted scope inserted into a tiny hole in the abdomen to allow the doctor to visualize the ovaries. The doctor may possibly remove a small sample of tissue for biopsy, a procedure in which the large lesions of endometriosis may also be removed.  

Treatment of endometriosis

• Pain medications. Drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help relieve some of the discomfort of endometriosis.
• Birth control pills. The pill suppresses the monthly buildup of endometrial tissue on the ovaries and anywhere else the endometriosis may be in the abdomen and pelvis. This makes periods lighter and reduces the symptoms of endometriosis.
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH agonists). These drugs reduce the amount of the hormone estrogen in the body. By slowing the growth of endometriosis, they limit its symptoms.
• Laparoscopy and laparotomy. These are surgical procedures that let the doctor remove endometriosis on the ovaries and other places. If the endometriosis is extensive, the doctor may recommend a hysterectomy. This procedure removes the uterus and sometimes also the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Learn more about laparoscopic surgery to treat endometriosis.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection in the ovaries, uterus, or fallopian tubes. It is most often caused by sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea or chlamydia. It is one of the most common causes of pelvic pain in women.

Other symptoms of PID

• Pain during intercourse
• Fever
• Vaginal discharge that may have a smell
• Irregular menstrual bleeding
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Difficulty urinating

How PID is diagnosed

• Pelvic exam. The exam will enable your doctor to look for any lumps, abnormal discharge, or tenderness in the pelvis.
• Blood and urine tests. These lab tests can help identify the infection. So can cultures of any discharge seen during a pelvic exam.
• Ultrasound. This test creates an image of the pelvic area so the doctor can see if the reproductive organs are enlarged. The doctor can also see if there is a pocket of infection known as an abscess.
• Laparoscopy. Occasionally this procedure, which uses a thin lighted scope inserted into a tiny hole in the abdomen, is used to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of PID

Antibiotics. These drugs are given by mouth or through an injection. They can kill the bacteria that are causing PID. If you are taking antibiotics for PID, your sexual partner or partners should also get treated. There is a high likelihood that your partner has the same sexually transmitted infection. Learn more about the treatments for pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

Surgery to remove the uterus and ovaries is known as hysterectomy and oophorectomy. A bilateral salping- oophorectomy is a procedure in which both fallopian tubes and ovaries are removed. In rare cases, a small piece of the ovary may accidentally be left behind. The remnant can grow and develop painful cysts.

Other symptoms of ovarian remnant syndrome

• Pain during intercourse
• Difficulty urinating

How ovarian remnant syndrome is diagnosed

Ultrasound, CT, and MRI. These scans create images of the area. They help the doctor locate the remaining piece of ovary tissue.

Treatment of ovarian remnant syndrome

Laparotomy or laparoscopy. These procedures are done to remove the remaining piece or pieces of ovary. Learn more about ovary removal surgery.

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Ovarian Pain: The 7 Most Common Causes

The ovaries are two small glands located on either side of the lower pelvis. They play a vital reproductive role, the menstrual cycle and, in general, the development of women’s sexual characteristics depend on their condition.

Every month there is a process known as ovulation, when the rupture of a mature follicle in the ovary releases an egg into the fallopian tube. For most women, this happens regularly from puberty to menopause.

Here are the seven most common causes of pain in the ovarian region:

1. Ovulation

Painful ovulation is called mittelschmerz, which means “median pain” in German.

Ovulation is the process of the release of an egg from the ovary and occurs on or about day 14 of the average menstrual cycle. Most women experience no discomfort during ovulation, but some may experience severe discomfort or pain during this period for several minutes, hours, or even days.

Mittelschmertz can be felt on one or both sides of the body and is sometimes accompanied by nausea, bleeding, or profuse vaginal discharge.

Mittelshmerz does not require treatment. However, be aware that some serious conditions, such as appendicitis and ectopic pregnancy, can mimic the pain of ovulation. A woman should see a doctor if any of these conditions could be the cause of her pain.

2. Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease is caused by an infection that has spread to the uterus, ovaries, or fallopian tubes. In most cases, the bacteria that cause inflammation are sexually transmitted.

Pelvic inflammatory disease can be caused by infection during childbirth, IUD insertion, miscarriage, abortion, or any other invasive procedure.

Treatment

In pelvic inflammatory disease, the underlying infection is treated first with antibiotics. Mild inflammation can be treated with just one injection, while more severe inflammation may require hospital treatment with intravenous antibiotics.

3. Ovarian torsion

Ovarian torsion is a severe adnexal pathology that develops as a result of torsion of the ligaments that fix the ovary, clamping of its vessels and ischemia of the organ.

In most cases, ovarian torsion develops with an increase in its volume and mass due to various formations – large cysts and tumors, often benign

Treatment

Ovarian torsion causes severe pain and requires urgent medical intervention. Emergency treatment measures are carried out only in a hospital and the only effective method is surgical intervention.

Late diagnosis due to rapidly developing complications can lead to the most unfavorable consequences.

4. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a disease characterized by the growth of cells of the endometrium, the inner layer of the uterine cavity, on its surface, as well as in the tissues of other organs.

Since the endometrioid tissue has hormone receptors, the same changes occur in it as in the normal endometrium, manifested by monthly bleeding. These small bleedings lead to inflammation in the surrounding tissues and cause the main manifestations of the disease: pain, an increase in the volume of the organ, and infertility.

Treatment

Depending on the severity of the disease, the treatment of endometriosis can be both surgical and hormonal. In most cases, combined treatment is used. Surgical treatment includes various methods, ranging from excision of individual areas of endometriosis during laparoscopy, ending with complete removal of the uterus in complicated cases.

5. Ovarian cyst

An ovarian cyst in women is a fluid-filled protrusion that forms on the surface of one or both of a woman’s ovaries, usually from a follicle. An ovarian cyst is a very common disease and in most cases does not cause any symptoms.

In very rare cases, the disease is accompanied by symptoms such as:

• pain in the lower abdomen, sometimes very severe and acute;
• heaviness, pressure in the pelvic region;
• prolonged pain during menstruation;
• irregular monthly cycle;
• nausea, vomiting after intense exercise or sexual intercourse;
• pressure during bladder or rectal emptying;
• pain in the vagina, accompanied by blood discharge.

You should consult a doctor if you experience symptoms that may indicate a rupture of the cyst:

• temperature over 38 degrees;
• weakness and dizziness;
• copious discharge during menstruation;
• increase in the volume of the abdomen;
• intense thirst with copious urination;
• abnormal blood pressure;
• uncontrolled weight loss;
• palpable lump in the abdomen;

In most cases, an ovarian cyst is a neoplasm of a benign nature, in extremely rare cases it can take a malignant form.

Treatment

With a functional nature and an uncomplicated course of an ovarian cyst, both expectant management and conservative treatment with contraceptives are possible.

In the absence of a positive effect from conservative therapy or with an increase in the size of the ovarian cyst, surgical intervention is indicated – removal of the formation within healthy ovarian tissues and its histological examination.

6. Ovarian remnant syndrome

Ovarian remnant syndrome occurs in women only after surgical removal of the uterus and ovaries. If any ovarian tissue remains in the pelvic area, it continues to produce hormones and may grow into a cyst.

This process causes pain, which may be constant or paroxysmal. Women with ovarian remnant syndrome may also experience pain during sex and when urinating.

Treatment

Ovarian remnant syndrome requires treatment to destroy as much of the remaining ovarian tissue as possible. This will reduce the release of hormones produced by the remaining tissue.

7. Referenced pain

Pain in the ovaries can actually be caused by problems with the condition of other organs. So, ovarian pain mimics appendicitis, ectopic pregnancy, kidney stones, or constipation.

Treatment

The doctor must determine what exactly is causing the pain, then an appropriate course of treatment is prescribed. For the above reasons, it is surgery to remove the appendix, termination of an ectopic pregnancy, pain relief and removal of stones from the kidneys, taking laxatives to relieve constipation.

When to see a doctor

Women should see a doctor if they experience any pain in the pelvic area. Only a specialist who has the necessary diagnostic tools in his arsenal is able to find out the cause of the pain.

Depending on the cause of the pain, the consequences of late diagnosis can be long-term health problems and even death of the patient.

As a reminder, ovarian pain combined with symptoms such as dizziness, nausea and vomiting, fever, vaginal bleeding is a medical emergency.

The staff of the Professor’s Clinic consists of highly qualified gynecologists who have all the necessary tools for instrumental and laboratory diagnostics. You can get additional information, make an appointment by calling a single phone number in Perm 206-07-67 or using the “Make an Appointment” service on our website.

For surgical care for gynecological diseases , you can call 233-00-66 or use feedback form on the website of the Center for Occupational Medicine.

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Treatment of Oophoritis in Kaliningrad – price

Inflammation of the ovaries in medical practice is called “oophoritis”. This disease can have two forms: acute and chronic. The inflammatory process can occur on the left, right, or both ovaries at once. The danger of the disease lies in the dangerous complications that can occur in the absence of timely treatment. Before starting treatment, you need to visit a doctor and undergo a full diagnosis. In the medical clinic “Alzoria” they will help to cure the inflammatory process and normalize the functioning of the ovaries.

Causes

Inflammation of the ovaries usually occurs against the background of reduced immunity. Provoking factors can be:

• Hypothermia.
• Improper insertion of the intrauterine device.
• Surgical termination of pregnancy.
• Presence of sexually transmitted diseases.
• Inflammatory processes of the organs of the reproductive system.

Symptoms of the disease

Conventionally, the inflammatory process in the ovary can be divided into two types, which differ in symptoms:

• Acute inflammation. In this case, the patient is concerned about pain in the lower abdomen, which may increase when emptying the bladder or after intercourse. Sometimes there is spotting outside the menstrual cycle and increased body temperature.
• Chronic inflammation. In the chronic course of the disease, relapses often occur, especially with hypothermia. Abundant vaginal discharge and pain in the lower abdomen before menstruation can be regularly observed. Perhaps the development of infertility.

Diagnosis

Turning to the medical clinic “Alzoria”, the doctor conducts an anamnesis and gynecological examination. To clarify the diagnosis, it is necessary to carry out laboratory and instrumental examination methods:

• Ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs.
• Vaginal swab.
• In particularly difficult cases, laparoscopy may be required.

Course of treatment

Inflammation of the ovaries is treated with conservative therapy. The tactics of treatment is determined only after a complete diagnosis. Most often, a woman is prescribed medications:

• Antibiotics.
• Immunostimulants.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Hormonal preparations.
• Vitaminized complexes.

Acute inflammation can be treated both inpatient and outpatient, depending on the severity of the disease.

Your doctor may also recommend some types of physical therapy, such as electrophoresis. This is especially true in the chronic form of the inflammatory process.

Complications

If a woman does not start timely treatment of acute inflammation of the ovaries, the pathological process can become chronic. This means that relapses of the disease will be frequent, literally with every hypothermia of the body. In addition, there is a risk of developing the following consequences:

• Violation of the menstrual cycle.
• Hormonal failure.
• Impossibility of natural conception of a child.
• Adhesions in the pelvic area.

Prevention

In order not to face such a disease as inflammation of the ovaries, you must follow a few rules:

• Avoid hypothermia.
• Boost your immunity in every possible way.
• Refuse abortion.
• Visit your gynecologist twice a year.

Consult a doctor at the first sign of a pathological process in order not to face a number of complications.