Ovulation pain
Is ovulation pain anything to worry about?
Painful ovulation is fairly common and usually harmless. It can sometimes though be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
Some of the underlying causes can result in fertility problems that can prevent you from getting pregnant:
- Endometriosis is an inflammatory disease that affects the ovaries and fallopian tubes. It can also cause pain during ovulation.
- Scar tissue if you've had surgery, for example a Caesarean section or your appendix out scar tissue can cause ovulation pain by restricting the ovaries and surrounding structures.
- Sexually transmitted infections STIs such as chlamydia can cause inflammation and scarring around the fallopian tubes, leading to ovulation pain.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find out about ovulation pain, how to treat it, it's affect on your fertility, and when you need to see a doctor.
Symptoms of ovulation pain
The pain can be a dull cramp or a sharp and sudden twinge. Its usually on either the left or right hand side of your tummy depending on which ovary is releasing the egg. It can last just a few minut
When to see your doctor
If the pain is severe or youre worried, see your GP. Its a good idea to keep a diary before your visit so you can let the doctor know exactly when during your menstrual cycle the pain comes on and how
Treatments for painful ovulation
Painful ovulation can usually be eased by simple remedies like soaking in a hot bath or taking an over-the-counter painkiller, such as paracetamol . Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) suc
Is ovulation pain anything to worry about?
Painful ovulation is fairly common and usually harmless. It can sometimes though be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Some of the underlying causes can result in fertility problems that c
Why does ovulation pain happen?
No-one is sure but one theory is that the pain is the egg breaking through the ovary wall, which releases a small amount of fluid or sometimes a small amount of blood that irritates nearby nerves.
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