Ovulation pain is usually a pain on one side of the abdomen around the time of the month ovulation occurs. To explain briefly, ovulation is a phase of the menstrual cycle that involves the release of an ovum (egg) from one of the ovaries. This process usually occurs once every month till menopause, except during periods of breastfeeding and pregnancy.
Nowadays, ovulation pain is really common, so for some women, it may be a shock to hear that this pain is actually not normal. We agree that many women feel ovulation and it is no big deal – usually it is a mild pinching type of pain that doesn’t last long. But acute, stabbing, debilitating and severe pain is not normal at all. Painful ovulation is a red flag that you probably have some underlying health problems that need to be addressed.
Causes of Ovulation Pain That Should Not Be Ignored
In most cases, this pain is not dangerous. But, severe and persistent ovulation pain, as well as other pains in the lower abdomen, may be symptomatic of different medical conditions, such as:
Ovarian Cyst
Ovulation pain is usually a sign of cysts on the ovaries. During the ovulation time, these cysts can form, or burst. Women who have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) usually experience ovulation pain as a result of multiple ovarian cysts. These cystic ovaries are appearing due to hormonal imbalance, often associated with insulin resistance. For such women, eliminating grains and sugar (that can cause inflammation in the body) can help.
Endometriosis
It is a disorder in which the lining of the womb is found outside the womb and it can affect the fallopian tubes and ovaries. This condition can cause discomfort during the ovulatory time. Some other symptoms include migraines, dizziness, pain during intercourse, constipation, headaches and more.
Appendicitis
It is an inflammation of the appendix, which is a tube-shaped sac in the lower end of the large intestine. Appendicitis is a condition that can many times be confused with painful ovulation. You need to seek medical help if you feel pain on the right side of your stomach and you are having vomiting and nausea.
Ectopic pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy which is implanted outside of the womb, typically in one of the fallopian tube. In general, symptoms can include abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and cramping. In case you have these symptoms, you need to seek medical help immediately.
Sexually transmitted infections (STI’s)
Another reason for painful ovulation is STI’s. For example, chlamydia – can cause scarring, inflammation in the tubes and pelvic disease. It can also block the fallopian tubes with pus ( a condition known as hydrosalpinx), and cause inflammation and pain.
Other gastrointestinal issues
Painful ovulation can be symptomatic of various gastrointestinal problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease, gastroenteritis, and perforated ulcer.
You should consult with your GP to make sure that your ovulation pain is not caused by any medical issue.
You need to visit your doctor if you experience painful ovulation that lasts more than 3 days, or if you have symptoms as:
Vaginal discharge or heavy bleeding
Fever
Severe nausea or vomiting
Painful urination
Abdominal swelling
Redness and inflammation of the skin on the pelvis or abdomen
