What causes stomach cramps during ovulation. How can you distinguish ovulation pain from other abdominal discomfort. When should you seek medical attention for ovulation-related pain.

The Phenomenon of Mittelschmerz: Decoding Ovulation Pain

Mittelschmerz, a term derived from German words meaning “middle pain,” refers to the discomfort some women experience during ovulation. This phenomenon, occurring midway between menstrual cycles, can manifest as pelvic and lower abdominal pain. The intensity of this pain varies greatly among individuals, ranging from a mild twinge to severe discomfort.

How long does ovulation pain typically last? The duration of mittelschmerz can span from mere minutes to several hours. Typically, the discomfort is localized to one side of the abdomen or pelvis, corresponding to the ovary releasing the egg during that particular cycle. Some women may also notice a small amount of vaginal bleeding or discharge accompanying the pain.

Identifying the Causes of Painful Ovulation

While the exact mechanism behind mittelschmerz remains unclear, researchers have proposed several theories to explain this phenomenon. As an egg matures within the ovary, it’s encased in follicular fluid. During ovulation, this fluid, along with the egg and some blood, is released from the ovary.

Why does this process cause pain in some women? It’s believed that the released fluid or blood may irritate the lining of the abdominal cavity, resulting in the characteristic discomfort of mittelschmerz. The pain typically subsides once the egg is released or when the body absorbs the fluid or blood.

Factors Influencing Ovulation Pain

• Individual sensitivity to hormonal changes
• Size and number of follicles released during ovulation
• Presence of underlying reproductive conditions
• Genetic predisposition

Differentiating Ovulation Pain from Other Abdominal Discomfort

How can you determine if your pain is related to ovulation? The timing of mittelschmerz makes it relatively easy to identify. Ovulation typically occurs about two weeks before the onset of the next menstrual cycle. To aid in diagnosis, doctors may recommend charting menstrual cycles and noting any episodes of pain, including their location and duration.

Are there other symptoms associated with ovulation pain? In addition to localized discomfort, some women may experience nausea, particularly if the pain is severe. However, it’s crucial to differentiate mittelschmerz from other potential causes of abdominal pain.

Diagnostic Approaches for Ovulation Pain

1. Menstrual cycle tracking
2. Abdominal and pelvic examination
3. Blood tests (if necessary)
4. Ultrasound or X-rays (in cases of severe or irregular pain)

Treatment Options for Mittelschmerz: Managing Ovulation Discomfort

Given that ovulation pain typically resolves within 24 hours, specific treatment is often unnecessary. However, for women experiencing significant discomfort, several options are available to alleviate symptoms.

Which over-the-counter medications are effective for ovulation pain? Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as naproxen (Aleve) or ibuprofen (Motrin) are generally effective in providing relief from mittelschmerz. These medications work by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals.

Non-Pharmacological Approaches to Pain Relief

• Applying a heating pad to the lower abdomen
• Taking a warm bath
• Practicing relaxation techniques
• Gentle exercise or stretching

For women experiencing particularly severe ovulation pain, hormonal birth control methods may offer a solution. Combined estrogen and progesterone contraceptives work by preventing ovulation, thereby eliminating the root cause of mittelschmerz.

Preventing Ovulation Pain: Is It Possible?

Can mittelschmerz be completely prevented? The only effective method to prevent ovulation pain is to suppress ovulation itself. This can be achieved through the use of hormonal contraceptives, particularly estrogen-progesterone birth control pills.

Are there any natural methods to reduce the likelihood of ovulation pain? While not scientifically proven, some women report relief from dietary changes, stress reduction techniques, and regular exercise. However, these approaches may not work for everyone, and their effectiveness can vary.

Potential Benefits of Hormonal Contraceptives in Managing Mittelschmerz

• Suppression of ovulation
• Regulation of menstrual cycles
• Reduction in overall menstrual symptoms
• Potential improvement in acne and other hormonal issues

When to Seek Medical Attention for Ovulation Pain

While mittelschmerz is generally harmless, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. When should you call your doctor about ovulation pain? Contact a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following symptoms during ovulation:

• Fever
• Pain during urination
• Redness or burning sensation at the site of pain
• Vomiting
• Mid-cycle pain lasting longer than a day

Additionally, if you’ve missed your last menstrual period, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider to rule out pregnancy or other potential issues.

The Broader Implications of Ovulation Pain

Beyond its immediate discomfort, mittelschmerz can have broader implications for women’s health and fertility. How does ovulation pain relate to fertility? For some women, the presence of mittelschmerz can serve as a natural indicator of ovulation, potentially aiding in family planning efforts.

Can ovulation pain impact quality of life? While many women experience mild discomfort, severe cases of mittelschmerz can interfere with daily activities and overall well-being. In such instances, working closely with a healthcare provider to develop an effective management plan is crucial.

Potential Long-Term Considerations

• Impact on fertility tracking and family planning
• Psychological effects of chronic pain
• Potential masking of other gynecological conditions
• Influence on contraceptive choices

Advances in Understanding and Managing Ovulation Pain

As medical research progresses, our understanding of mittelschmerz continues to evolve. What recent developments have emerged in the field of ovulation pain? Recent studies have explored the potential role of prostaglandins in mediating ovulation pain, opening up new avenues for targeted treatments.

Are there any emerging therapies for managing mittelschmerz? While still in early stages, researchers are investigating the potential of novel anti-inflammatory agents and localized treatments to provide more effective relief from ovulation pain.

Future Directions in Mittelschmerz Research

1. Genetic factors influencing susceptibility to ovulation pain
2. Advanced imaging techniques for better diagnosis
3. Development of personalized treatment approaches
4. Exploration of the relationship between mittelschmerz and other gynecological conditions

As our knowledge of mittelschmerz expands, so too does our ability to provide effective management strategies for women experiencing this common yet often overlooked aspect of reproductive health. By fostering open discussions about ovulation pain and its impact, we can ensure that women receive the support and care they need to navigate this aspect of their menstrual cycles with confidence and comfort.

Understanding mittelschmerz not only helps in managing individual discomfort but also contributes to a broader appreciation of women’s reproductive health. As research continues to unravel the complexities of ovulation pain, it paves the way for more targeted and effective interventions, ultimately improving the quality of life for countless women worldwide.

In conclusion, while mittelschmerz can be a source of discomfort and concern for many women, it’s important to remember that it’s a natural part of the reproductive cycle for some individuals. By staying informed, tracking symptoms, and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, women can effectively manage ovulation pain and use this knowledge to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

Ovulation Pain (Mittelschmerz): Why It Happens

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Medically Reviewed by Nivin Todd, MD on September 10, 2022

• Who Has Painful Ovulation?
• What Causes Painful Ovulation?
• How Do I Know If my Pain Is Due to Ovulation?
• How Is Painful Ovulation Treated?
• Can Painful Ovulation Be Prevented?
• When Should I Call My Doctor About Painful Ovulation?
• More

Mittelschmerz is the pelvic and lower abdominal pain that some women experience during ovulation. Ovulation generally occurs about midway between menstrual cycles; hence the term mittelschmerz, which comes from the German words for “middle” and “pain.”

The pain of ovulation can range from a mild twinge to severe discomfort and usually lasts from minutes to hours. It is generally felt on one side of the abdomen or pelvis and may vary each month, depending on which ovary is releasing the egg during that cycle. In some cases, a small amount of vaginal bleeding or discharge may occur. Some women experience nausea, especially if the pain is severe.

Many women never experience painful ovulation. Some women, however, have mid-cycle pain every month and can determine by the pain that they are ovulating.

As an egg develops in the ovary, it is surrounded by follicular fluid. During ovulation, the egg and the fluid, as well as some blood, are released from the ovary. While the exact cause of mittelschmerz is unknown, it is believed that the fluid or blood may irritate the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing pain. The pain goes away soon after the egg is released or once the body absorbs the fluid or blood.

Ovulation usually occurs about two weeks before your next cycle, so the timing of the pain makes mittelschmerz easy to recognize. To help determine if your pain is related to ovulation, your doctor may ask you to chart your menstrual cycles, noting any episodes of pain, as well as the location of the pain (the pain of ovulation usually occurs on one side of your lower abdomen). Your doctor also may perform an abdominal and pelvic exam to help rule out other possible causes of pain, such as endometriosis or a cyst on your ovary. If your pain is severe or if the doctor notices any irregularities on the exam, they may order blood tests or ultrasound or X-rays to help determine the cause of your pain.

The pain of ovulation usually goes away within about 24 hours, so specific treatment is not required. Over-the-counter pain medicines — such as Aleve (naproxen) or Motrin (ibuprofen) — generally are effective in relieving mittelschmerz. Applying a heating pad to the lower abdomen or taking a warm bath may also help ease discomfort. Women with particularly painful ovulation may find relief by taking birth control pills with combined estrogen and progesterone, which prevent ovulation.

Preventing ovulation, which can be done with estrogen-progesterone birth control pills, is the only way to effectively prevent mittelschmerz.

Call your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms during ovulation:

• Fever
• Pain with urination
• Redness or burning of the skin at the site of the pain
• Vomiting
• Mid-cycle pain lasting longer than a day

You should also call your doctor if you missed your last menstrual period.

Top Picks

Ovulation Pain (Mittelschmerz): Why It Happens

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Medically Reviewed by Nivin Todd, MD on September 10, 2022

• Who Has Painful Ovulation?
• What Causes Painful Ovulation?
• How Do I Know If my Pain Is Due to Ovulation?
• How Is Painful Ovulation Treated?
• Can Painful Ovulation Be Prevented?
• When Should I Call My Doctor About Painful Ovulation?
• More

Mittelschmerz is the pelvic and lower abdominal pain that some women experience during ovulation. Ovulation generally occurs about midway between menstrual cycles; hence the term mittelschmerz, which comes from the German words for “middle” and “pain.”

The pain of ovulation can range from a mild twinge to severe discomfort and usually lasts from minutes to hours. It is generally felt on one side of the abdomen or pelvis and may vary each month, depending on which ovary is releasing the egg during that cycle. In some cases, a small amount of vaginal bleeding or discharge may occur. Some women experience nausea, especially if the pain is severe.

Many women never experience painful ovulation. Some women, however, have mid-cycle pain every month and can determine by the pain that they are ovulating.

As an egg develops in the ovary, it is surrounded by follicular fluid. During ovulation, the egg and the fluid, as well as some blood, are released from the ovary. While the exact cause of mittelschmerz is unknown, it is believed that the fluid or blood may irritate the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing pain. The pain goes away soon after the egg is released or once the body absorbs the fluid or blood.

Ovulation usually occurs about two weeks before your next cycle, so the timing of the pain makes mittelschmerz easy to recognize. To help determine if your pain is related to ovulation, your doctor may ask you to chart your menstrual cycles, noting any episodes of pain, as well as the location of the pain (the pain of ovulation usually occurs on one side of your lower abdomen). Your doctor also may perform an abdominal and pelvic exam to help rule out other possible causes of pain, such as endometriosis or a cyst on your ovary. If your pain is severe or if the doctor notices any irregularities on the exam, they may order blood tests or ultrasound or X-rays to help determine the cause of your pain.

The pain of ovulation usually goes away within about 24 hours, so specific treatment is not required. Over-the-counter pain medicines — such as Aleve (naproxen) or Motrin (ibuprofen) — generally are effective in relieving mittelschmerz. Applying a heating pad to the lower abdomen or taking a warm bath may also help ease discomfort. Women with particularly painful ovulation may find relief by taking birth control pills with combined estrogen and progesterone, which prevent ovulation.

Preventing ovulation, which can be done with estrogen-progesterone birth control pills, is the only way to effectively prevent mittelschmerz.

Call your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms during ovulation:

• Fever
• Pain with urination
• Redness or burning of the skin at the site of the pain
• Vomiting
• Mid-cycle pain lasting longer than a day

You should also call your doctor if you missed your last menstrual period.

Top Picks

Severe bloating during ovulation: causes, symptoms and treatment

Updated

February 14, 2022

|

Published

19 December 2019

Reviewed by an expert

How Flo Verifies Facts

All information published on Flo Health follows strict editorial standards for medical accuracy, validity, and timeliness. For more information on how we ensure the reliability of published information, please see our Fact Checking Principles.

Can ovulation cause bloating? Yes, and it’s definitely not very pleasant. We will tell you about this phenomenon and give you useful tips on how to overcome bloating.

Does ovulation cause bloating?

Ovulation is the release of a mature egg from the ovary. After that, the egg moves through the fallopian tubes and is ready for fertilization by a sperm cell.

Most women ovulate between days 11 and 21 of their menstrual cycle.

Symptoms of ovulation can be unexpectedly pleasant, such as heightened senses, increased energy and sex drive, and a generally good, optimistic mood.

However, for some women, ovulation can also cause unpleasant symptoms, such as chest discomfort or bloating.

It happens that during ovulation there is pain in the lower abdomen on one side. This is called ovulatory syndrome. It usually lasts from a few minutes to 1-2 days. The pain may be dull or sharp and may be accompanied by a small amount of bloody discharge from the vagina.

According to the American Pregnancy Association, ovulation is often accompanied by bloating.

Bloating associated with ovulation usually resolves after a couple of days. If it lasts for several days or longer, or you think that bloating is associated with some kind of disease, consult a doctor.

Abdominal bloating in the middle of the menstrual cycle can also be caused by various diseases: endometriosis, ovarian cyst or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Causes of bloating

During ovulation, hormonal changes occur in the body. Before the release of the egg from the ovary, the level of estrogen rises, which can lead to fluid retention in the body, and this, in turn, to bloating.

Weight gain during ovulation and bloating

Fluid retention during ovulation leads to bloating and breast enlargement, and therefore you can gain weight.

In addition, cravings for certain foods often appear during ovulation. For example, you may crave something very salty (chips, cheese, etc.). And eating a lot of salt also leads to water retention and, as a result, bloating and weight gain.

Symptoms of ovulation

In addition to bloating, other signs may indicate ovulation.

• Change in vaginal discharge: it becomes profuse, transparent, viscous and watery. You may notice discharge on your underwear or toilet paper after urinating.
• Change in basal body temperature: it rises slightly after ovulation. Your basal body temperature should be measured at the same time in the morning and before you get out of bed.
• Changes in the cervix: when ovulating, it rises higher, becomes softer, moister and more open. Without practice, it will be difficult for you to compare her position during ovulation and at other periods of the menstrual cycle. To notice changes, you need to evaluate the condition of the cervix regularly.

In addition to bloating and other symptoms listed above, there are other secondary signs of ovulation:

• small spotting;
• breast tenderness;
• mild cramps or pain on one side of the abdomen or pelvis;
• worsening of taste, sight or smell;
• increased sexual desire.

If you want to get pregnant, have regular sex 5 days before ovulation and on the day of ovulation. This will increase your chances of conceiving. You can track ovulation not only by noticing its symptoms, but also with the help of special tests or measuring basal body temperature.

Ovulation and premenstrual bloating

The easiest way to find out whether bloating is due to your period or ovulation is to track when it occurs during your menstrual cycle.

As you already know, ovulation-related bloating can occur in the middle of the cycle, between days 11 and 14. However, bloating can also be a symptom of PMS. In this case, it begins about a week before menstruation and can last up to 1 week after it ends.

Other symptoms of PMS may include:

• breast tenderness or swelling;
• diarrhea or constipation;
• abdominal cramps;
• fatigue;
• headache;
• mood swings;
• irritability.

How to deal with severe bloating during ovulation

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Limit salt in your diet. Cut down on processed foods and fast food as they are high in salt.
• Try the so-called FODMAP diet. This is a diet low in indigestible carbohydrates, which cause gas, bloating and abdominal pain. These include wheat, onions, broccoli, garlic, cauliflower, cabbage, artichokes, apples, beans, watermelons, and pears.
• Magnesium preparations will also be useful. However, before you start the course, consult your doctor.
• Get regular aerobic exercise.
• Try relaxation exercises, including meditation and yoga.
• For some women, ovulation can cause unpleasant symptoms such as bloating. Bloating during ovulation usually occurs on the 11th to 14th day of a regular menstrual cycle. The reason for this is an increase in hormone levels, which leads to water retention in the body.
• It is because of bloating during ovulation that your weight may increase slightly.
• In addition to bloating, ovulation is manifested by changes in vaginal discharge, basal body temperature and position of the cervix.
• Bloating can occur not only during ovulation, but also before menstruation.
• Bloating due to ovulation usually resolves within a few days. To manage it, drink more water, limit your salt intake, avoid foods high in indigestible carbohydrates, take magnesium supplements, exercise, and do relaxation exercises.

Links

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mittelschmerz/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20375126

History of updates

current version
(14 February 2022)

23 November 2018

Pain in the lower abdomen in a woman during ovulation, menstruation, sex: Causes and treatment

For girls and womenClimaxMenstruationAnesthetic dropsAnesthetic plastersAnesthetic pillsAnesthetic injectionsSorbentsBruises

Author of the article

Polina Mikhailovna Galkina,

Gynecologist-endocrinologist

All authors

pain in the lower abdomen

Pain in the lower abdomen on the left

Pain syndrome indicates the development of pathology in the body. Gynecology is no exception here. Pain in the lower abdomen in a woman may indicate the onset or progression of infectious, inflammatory or tumor processes. Although in some cases they are considered as the norm and do not require therapeutic correction. A visit to the gynecologist and differential diagnosis is the only way to find out what the symptom is associated with and whether targeted treatment is required.

Consider the common causes of pain.

Pain after menstruation, pain in the lower abdomen

Drawing pain during menstruation experienced by most women. However, in some cases, unpleasant symptoms occur when menstruation is over.

A common cause is a decrease in immunity due to blood loss, as a result of which a woman becomes more susceptible to infections, inflammatory processes and other disorders in the body.

Lower back pain in the right lower abdomen in a woman: causes, hormonal imbalance

Pain in the lower abdomen in women occurs if:

• Lack of progesterone, which is responsible for the elasticity and relaxation of the muscles of the uterus. Hormone deficiency causes excessive tension in her muscles;
• Hyperestrogenism (increased estrogen level) – provokes the development of endometrial pathologies;
• Hyperandrogenism (elevated levels of androgens) – leads to a delay in menstruation and a decrease in the volume of discharge. This condition also causes pain.

A change in the level of hormones occurs when the thyroid gland, liver, kidneys malfunction, or hormones are taken.

Ovulation

Pain in the left side of the lower abdomen approximately on the 10th-14th day of the onset of the menstrual cycle. Pain in the left side of the lower abdomen with a high degree of probability – this indicates the onset of ovulation – the rupture of the follicle and the release of the egg from the ovary. The maturation of the egg occurs alternately in both ovaries, and pain during ovulation in different cycles can be observed either on the left or the right side in the lower abdomen hurts.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

Treatment of infertility often involves the use of drugs that stimulate the ovaries and produce hormones. The use of drugs causes the expansion of the vessels of the ovaries and their increase in size. And the thinning of the walls of the organ leads to leakage of fluid into the abdominal cavity. Leaked fluid provokes the development of pain after menstruation. Flatulence and uterine hypertonicity join the symptom.

Lower abdomen hurts after sex

Mild pain and discomfort after intercourse is a common problem affecting about half of women of reproductive age. As a rule, the symptom does not indicate pathology and is considered as the norm. But to be sure, it is better to visit a gynecologist and discuss the issue.

Do not worry if discomfort is caused by:

• Lack of vaginal lubrication – its production increases with female arousal. The task of a man is to prepare a woman for sexual intercourse. You can also use a water-based lubricant before intercourse;
• Psychological discomfort – its occurrence is associated with negative sexual experience. Unpleasant memories cause muscle spasm and pain after intercourse;
• Using a condom – a traditional contraceptive with excessively active and intense sexual intercourse can damage the mucous walls of the vagina. In addition, pain and irritation of the labia majora and minora occur as a reaction to the chemical composition of the product;
• Lack of orgasm – during sex, blood rushes to the genitals and, if orgasm does not come, it stagnates in the small pelvis.

These pains are temporary and resolve on their own. The soreness that occurs after each sexual intercourse, and even without it, should alert. A symptom can signal various organic and systemic pathologies. Only a gynecologist will help to find out the cause of discomfort.

Gynecological pathologies

There are many gynecological diseases in which the lower abdomen is pulled.

Ovarian cyst – a disorder that is detected in patients of different ages. The reasons for the formation of cysts include hormonal imbalance, inflammation and other triggers. If untreated, the disease can be complicated by cyst rupture and peritonitis. Intra-abdominal rupture of the formation is accompanied by intense pain in different parts of the abdomen. The condition is life-threatening and requires immediate hospitalization.

Adnexitis – damage to the fallopian tubes and ovaries of an inflammatory nature. A feature of the pathology are frequent relapses. Adnexitis is provoked by hypothermia, regular stress, uncomfortable and oppressive underwear, and immune suppression. Also, its development is facilitated by the transferred STIs and STDs.

Endometriosis is a pathological growth of the endometrium into the muscular layer of the uterus and beyond. In the causes of the disease, the main role is given to the hereditary factor, disorders in the immune and endocrine systems. But the exact mechanism by which endometriosis develops is unknown.

Prolapse of the uterus – occurs as a result of a decrease in the tone of the pelvic muscles and ligaments. Most often, pathology occurs after numerous births or in connection with natural aging. With its development, pulling pains are felt in the lower abdomen, lower back and sacrum.

Malignant tumors – are formed in any organ of the reproductive system, but most often cancer of the cervix and ovaries is recorded. These pathologies are asymptomatic for a long time. Pain occurs when the tumor reaches a significant size.

Pain is not always indicative of disorders in the reproductive system.

Pain in the left lower abdomen and non-gynecological pathologies

Pain in the lower abdomen indicates the development of the disease in the pelvic organs and neighboring structures.

Pathologies of the genitourinary system


Characterized by uncomfortable sensations above the pubis, extending to the right or left side. There is frequent urination, a change in the color of urine, in severe cases – fever, weakness, chills.

Cause a similar state:

• cystitis;
• chronic pyelonephritis;
• urethritis.

If treatment is ignored, these pathologies can be combined – one disease becomes the cause of another.

Flatulence


Flatulence manifestations are quite bright. Pathology is accompanied by distension and bloating, pain in its lower part, increased gas formation.

Flatulence can be caused by:

• dysbiosis;
• helminthic infestations;
• hormonal imbalance;
• neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract and pelvic organs;
• intestinal obstruction.

Painful symptoms increase as the pathology develops.

Appendicitis


People mistakenly believe that appendicitis is only when the lower abdomen hurts on the right. At the beginning of the inflammatory process, the pathology is manifested by pressing and pulling pain, which can radiate to the left side, the ribs, the navel area. And only as the inflammation progresses, it focuses on the right – in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe appendix. Then nausea, vomiting, fever join the pain.

When should I see a doctor?

See a gynecologist if pain occurs spontaneously and persists for 2 or more days. If the pain is intense and literally incapacitating, call an ambulance.

Other reasons for visiting a doctor:

• persistent temperature 37-39 °C;
• pungent odor of vaginal discharge, including menses;
• breast enlargement after menstruation;
• discharge of white or clear fluid from the nipples.

After diagnosing and establishing the causes of the symptom, the doctor will prescribe conservative, surgical or combined treatment. If the occurrence of pain is not associated with a pathological process, patients are advised special exercises to strengthen the abdominal wall and a diet.

Whatever the causes of pain, they cannot be ignored.