Many women complain of pain in the ovaries. Some do not know at what point in the menstrual cycle they notice discomfort, while others notice a clear pattern. Ovarian pain can be mild, like a twinge, or severe, causing great discomfort. If you're wondering why your ovaries hurt, read this OneHowTo.com article where we explain a bit more about the issue and consider all the possible causes of these problems.
The pain is not caused by the ovaries themselves but in fact comes from other parts of the reproductive system. The discomfort can lodge itself in the same area of the abdomen near the ovaries.
Pain can be a very acute stabbing feeling, concentrated in that area, or more generally throughout the reproductive system, which is known as abdominal pain.
It is common to feel pain in the ovaries during ovulation, which is known as painful ovulation. It is due to ovarian cysts that form during this period. The acute panging causes discomfort for a few hours or even a whole day. This discomfort may increase if you exercise or have sex during those days.
In most cases painful ovulation is not a concern as ovarian cysts usually dissolve on their own, but if you experience extremely intense pain that leaves you incapacitated, it is advisable to consult your gynaecologist.
Another reason for ovarian pain is menstruation. Although some women say that their "ovaries are hurting", what is actually happening is that the muscles of the uterus are contracting, causing discomfort and in many cases, leaving us completely out of action.
This kind of pain can be relieved with painkillers, or a consultation and gynaecological examination and by taking the contraceptive pill.
There are also other natural remedies for menstruation pain that you can try to relieve discomfort.
Women who suffer from irregular periods also usually have ovary pain during their periods. In these cases the pain is much more severe and intense, and is a major reason why many women go for a gynaecological consultation. Some women are prescribed birth control pills in order to regulate menstruation, but these should always be prescribed by a doctor or gynaecologist.
Women with pelvic inflammatory disease, in which the ovaries and fallopian tubes become inflamed, often also suffer from ovary pain as a symptom of this condition. A gynaecologist needs to make the diagnosis.
Another cause of pain in the ovaries is endometriosis, a condition that is often completely asymptomatic but for some women is manifested by various symptoms, including severe abdominal pain that can sometimes occur in the area surrounding the ovaries.
This condition can be difficult to diagnose, which is why we recommend visiting the gynaecologist if you suffer frequent pain in the pelvic area to enable the detection of possible endometriosis. Note that a laparoscopy is usually the most effective method for this diagnosis.
Ovarian cysts are another cause of pain in this area. In rare cases, pain in the ovaries may also be due to the presence of cysts or tumours. Certain conditions increase the likelihood of developing polycystic ovaries such as:
- Heredity
- Obesity
- Diabetes
If you suffer intense and prolonged pain in the ovaries it is recommended to consult a specialist. Similarly it is always advisable to visit your gynaecologist once a year for a check-up.
This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.
If you want to read similar articles to Why Do My Ovaries Hurt, we recommend you visit our Family health category.