Ovulation Pain and Abdominal Discomfort in Women

Q: Ovulation Pain and Abdominal Discomfort in Women

Hello： The most likely diagnosis for abdominal bloating before menstruation is premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which typically alleviates after menstruation begins. <br>If the bloating is extremely uncomfortable and unbearable, a medication to induce menstruation can be administered

Severe bloating and discomfort?

I have been experiencing ovulation pain for about 4.5 years (from the first day of my menstrual cycle until about 5 to 7 days after it completely clears).
I also have premenstrual syndrome symptoms and ovulation pain that makes me feel like I need to move slowly like an astronaut.
For the first three months, I followed my doctor's advice and took birth control pills, which alleviated the ovulation pain but I still experienced bloating and a lack of sexual desire (which upset my husband), so I stopped taking them.
The doctor then prescribed progesterone (white pills) for me to take starting on the 10th day after my menstrual cycle began (which started on the 26th of last month).
I took it until about the 22nd, but I couldn't tolerate it anymore because my nipples were extremely painful, so I stopped.
The next evening, after using the restroom, I noticed some blood and thought my period had started, but it was only a small drop the following evening.
I went to see another doctor (as my previous doctor had left) and explained my situation.
He performed an abdominal ultrasound and said that my follicles were not releasing, causing a cyst, which was why there was some bleeding.
He prescribed pink progesterone.
However, I am still experiencing significant bloating, a lack of appetite, and my abdomen feels very heavy and painful.
My period has not come.
Is this related to the cyst or something else? Could you please help me understand? Thank you!

jo jo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/07/27

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: The most likely diagnosis for abdominal bloating before menstruation is premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which typically alleviates after menstruation begins.
If the bloating is extremely uncomfortable and unbearable, a medication to induce menstruation can be administered to bring on the period early.
The period after ovulation is referred to as the luteal phase, during which any cysts present are often corpus luteum cysts, which usually resolve gradually after the next menstrual period.
Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Reply Date: 2005/07/27

More Info

Understanding ovulation pain and abdominal discomfort in women can be a complex issue, as it often involves various physiological factors and individual health conditions. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing ovulation pain for about 4.5 years, which typically occurs around the middle of your menstrual cycle. This pain, known as mittelschmerz, can manifest as a sharp or cramping sensation in the lower abdomen and may last from a few minutes to a few hours, although some women report it lasting longer.

The discomfort you experience during ovulation can be attributed to several factors. During ovulation, the follicle that contains the egg expands and eventually ruptures to release the egg. This process can cause irritation of the surrounding tissues and may lead to pain. Additionally, the release of certain hormones during this time can also contribute to discomfort. In some cases, women may experience abdominal bloating or discomfort due to hormonal fluctuations that affect the gastrointestinal tract.

You mentioned that you were prescribed birth control pills to alleviate ovulation pain, which is a common approach. Birth control pills work by suppressing ovulation, thus preventing the pain associated with it. However, you noted that while the pain was alleviated, you experienced abdominal bloating and a decrease in libido, which can be side effects of hormonal contraceptives. It's important to communicate these side effects with your healthcare provider, as they may suggest alternative methods of pain management or different types of contraceptives that may have fewer side effects.

The use of progesterone (like the yellow and pink pills you mentioned) is another treatment option that can help regulate your menstrual cycle and alleviate symptoms associated with ovulation. However, it seems that you experienced discomfort and unusual bleeding while on this medication, which warrants further investigation. The presence of a cyst (water tumor) on your ovary, as indicated by your ultrasound, can also contribute to abdominal pain and bloating. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form during the menstrual cycle and may cause discomfort if they become large or rupture.

Given your symptoms of persistent bloating, abdominal heaviness, and irregular bleeding, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend additional imaging studies or blood tests to assess your hormone levels and the status of any ovarian cysts. It is also essential to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms, such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease, which can also lead to similar discomfort.

In summary, ovulation pain and abdominal discomfort can stem from various factors, including hormonal changes, ovarian cysts, and individual health conditions. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any side effects from medications. They can help tailor a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and improves your quality of life. If you continue to experience significant discomfort or changes in your menstrual cycle, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice.

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