Ovulation pain, also known as mittelschmerz, is normal and is usually felt on one side of the lower abdomen, however, if the pain is very severe or if it lasts several days, it may be a sign of diseases such as endometriosis. , ectopic pregnancy or ovarian cysts.
This pain can occur in any woman of childbearing age during ovulation, it is more common in women who undergo infertility treatments with drugs to induce ovulation, such as Clomid, for example. Understand the ovulation process during the menstrual cycle.
- Ovulation pain occurs about 14 days before menstruation.
- That is.
- When the egg is released from the ovary.
- And is similar to a mild to moderate blow to the lower abdomen.
- Accompanied by small punctures.
- Cramps or stronger tightness.
- Which can be mistaken for gas and can only take a few minutes.
- Or even 1 or 2 days.
Pain is usually felt on the left or right side, depending on the ovary where ovulation occurs, and although it is rare, it can also occur on both sides at the same time.
In addition, the pain may be accompanied by vaginal bleeding and some women may also experience nausea, especially if the pain is severe.
It is not yet known what causes ovulation pain, but it is believed to be caused by the egg that breaks the ovary, which releases a small amount of fluid and blood, which irritates the areas around the ovary and causes pain. in the abdominal cavity.
Ovulation pain is relatively common, however, if the pain is very severe or if it lasts a long time, it can be a sign of a medical condition such as:
In addition, ovulation pain can also occur after a C-section or surgery on the appendix, due to the formation of scar tissue that can surround the ovaries and surrounding structures, causing pain.
The pain usually lasts up to 24 hours, so no treatment is needed. However, to relieve discomfort, pain relievers such as acetaminophen or anti-inflammatory medications such as naproxen and ibuprofen may be taken, but if the person is trying to become pregnant, they should not take these anti-inflammatory medications as they may interfere with ovulation. .
In addition, you can also apply hot compresses to the lower abdomen, or take a hot bath to help relieve discomfort, and in the case of women who usually experience pain during ovulation, this can be avoided with the use of the birth control pill, which can be advised by the doctor.
Although ovulation pain is normal, you should see a doctor if you experience fever, pain when urinating, redness or burning of the skin near the site of pain, vomiting, or pain in the middle of the cycle for more than a day.