Ovulation pain
Ovulation occurs when a mature egg bursts through the follicle to migrate through the fallopian tube into the uterus. Not every woman feels pain during ovulation, but some do experience pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen associated with ovulation.
Ovulation takes place about two weeks before menstruation when a mature egg is released from the ovary. It is then transported through the fallopian tube to the uterus. During this time, which lasts for about a day, the egg can be fertilized (by a sperm). If it is not fertilized, it dies and then is ejected.
In some days before the ovulation you may experience various changes in the body. The vaginal secretion becomes waterier and permeable to sperm and the desire for sex often increases. When the egg is released, the body temperature is raised by about half a degree just after the egg is released. Sometimes there is also small, harmless bleeding associated with ovulation.
Causes
There are various causes of ovulation pain. Usually ovulation pain is harmless. The process of the egg being released from the ovary may be the cause, as well as contractions of the fallopian tubes when the egg is transported through them. However, it may be caused by endometriosis (when the endometrium of the uteri grows in other locations), salpingitis (inflammation of the fallopian tubes), chronic pelvic inflammatory disease, or ectopic pregnancy. If you feel uncertain about the cause of your complaints, a doctor should be consulted.
Symptoms
Most women are not bothered by ovulation, but some feel severe pain in the lower abdomen and abdomen about two weeks before the expected period. The symptoms of ovulation pain can include:
- pain in the lower abdomen, just inside the hip bone
- pain typically occurring about two weeks before the menstrual period is due
- pain felt on the right or left side, depending on which ovary is releasing an egg
- pain that may switch from one side to the other from one cycle to the next, or remain on one side for a few cycles
- a pain sensation that can vary between individuals – for example, it could feel like uncomfortable pressure, twinges, sharp pains or cramps.
- pain that lasts any length of time from minutes to 48 hours.
Prevention and protection
Continue to pay attention to any changes in your symptoms. Otherwise, there are some things you can do to ease the discomfort of mid cycle 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.
Treatment
There is no special treatment for ovulation pain. However, in some cases, prescription painkillers may be given, at a doctor’s discretion. It’s always a good idea to pay attention to your body and report any new symptoms to your healthcare provider.
Treatment
There is no special treatment for pain in ovulation. However, in some cases, prescription painkillers may be relevant, in the physician’s opinion.
When to consult a doctor
Ovulation pain is harmless but can be very painful, and there are other conditions that may be causing your problems. Consult a doctor if over the counter painkillers aren’t helping, or if you feel unsure of what is causing your pain.
How APPOTEK can help
- Consulting
- Individual assessment, prescriptions and referral if needed
