Ovulation Pain: Causes And Ways To Relieve Symptoms
What Is Ovulation Pain?
Ovulation pain or mittelschmerz (German for “middle pain”), refers to the discomfort or pain that some women experience around your ovulation phase. It typically occurs about midway through the menstrual cycle.
Usually, you feel the pain on one side of your lower abdomen, where the ovaries are located. The side you feel it often alternates between cycles, corresponding to which ovary is releasing the egg that cycle.
Ovulation pain is typically described as a dull ache, cramping sensation or sharp twinge. It can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, but for most women, it’s brief. However, this can vary from cycle to cycle.
Some women may experience other symptoms alongside ovulation pain such as light vaginal spotting, bloating or a heightened sense of smell and taste.
Ovulation pain is usually harmless, but if the pain is severe, persistent or accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as fever, nausea or heavy bleeding, consult with a trusted healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
What Causes Ovulation Pain?
While there are many reasons ovulation pain may occur, some of which I’m sure are yet to be discovered, here are some of the primary causes:
1. Follicle growth and rupture
During the menstrual cycle, several follicles begin to mature under the influence of hormones like the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). As ovulation approaches, one dominant follicle continues to grow and eventually ruptures to release an egg. The rupture of the follicle and the release of the egg can cause irritation or stretching of the ovarian wall, which may lead to discomfort or pain.
2. Release of fluid and blood
When the follicle ruptures, it releases fluid and sometimes a small amount of blood into the abdominal cavity. This release can cause irritation of the abdominal lining, leading to a sensation of pain or discomfort that is localized to one side of the lower abdomen and corresponding to the ovary from which the egg was released.
3. Hormonal changes
Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly a surge in the luteinizing hormone (LH) just before ovulation, can contribute to changes in ovarian blood flow and follicular development. This may contribute to the pain.
4. Uterine contractions
Some women may experience uterine contractions around the time of ovulation, which can cause cramping sensations similar to menstrual cramps in the pelvic area.
5. Adhesions or scar tissue
In some cases, previous pelvic surgery, endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) could lead to adhesions or scar tissue in the pelvic area. During ovulation, movement of the ovaries or stretching of the fallopian tubes due to these adhesions can cause pain.
how can i fix it?
Ovulation pain can often be alleviated or managed with various at home remedies and behaviors. Certain herbs in particular are believed to have properties that can help. Here are a few herbs and practices that could help reduce or alleviate ovulation pain:
1. ginger
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with ovulation. It can be consumed fresh, as a tea, or in supplement form.
2. Chamomile
Chamomile has mild sedative and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help relax muscles and alleviate cramping during ovulation. It’s most often consumed as a tea.
3. heat therapy
Applying a heating pad or a warm compress to the lower abdomen can help relax muscles and alleviate cramping associated with ovulation pain.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with ovulation. Turmeric can be added to food or taken as a supplement.
5. Cinnamon
Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic (muscle spasm suppression) properties, which can help relieve menstrual and ovulation pain. It can be added to food or beverages, or taken as a supplement.
6. Cramp Bark
Cramp bark is traditionally used to relieve muscle spasms and cramping, including menstrual and ovulation pain. It is often consumed as a tea or in tincture form. Tinctures are concentrated herbal extracts made by soaking the bark, berries, leaves or roots from one or more plants in alcohol or vinegar. The alcohol or vinegar pulls out the active ingredients in the plant parts, concentrating them as a liquid.
7. Hydration
Drinking plenty of water can help reduce bloating and cramping associated with ovulation.
8. Gentle Exercise
Light physical activity such as walking or gentle stretching can help improve circulation and alleviate muscle tension, which may reduce pain.
9. Raspberry Leaf
Raspberry leaf is known for its toning and relaxing effects on the uterus and pelvic muscles. It’s commonly used to support reproductive health and alleviate menstrual discomfort, including ovulation pain. It can be consumed as a tea or in capsule form.
10. Dong Quai
Dong Quai is often used in traditional Chinese medicine to support menstrual health and alleviate menstrual cramps, including ovulation pain. It can be taken as a supplement or in tea form.
11. Relaxation Techniques
Stress can exacerbate pain perception, so practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga may help reduce discomfort.
12. Over-the-counter pain relievers
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with ovulation. While it’s not my favorite choice because of all the sh-tty side effects, sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do.
It’s essential to note that while ovulation pain is typically benign, severe or sudden pain should always be evaluated, so talk to someone and advocate for yourself! Make sure there’s constant, open and documented communication.
If your ovulation pain is persistent, if you have concerns about your symptoms, if you have any existing health conditions or if you’re taking medications, make sure you’re informing your healthcare provider. They can help determine appropriate dosages and ensure that there are no contraindications with other treatments you may be undergoing. They’ll also be able to surmise if there are any underlying issues contributing to your discomfort and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Sending you love.
