Ovulation Pain: Duration, Symptoms, and Variability

Q: Ovulation Pain: Duration, Symptoms, and Variability

Hello： The menstrual period started on November 2, and November 23 is the 22nd day of the menstrual cycle. <br>Generally, ovulation occurs approximately 12-16 days before the first day of the menstrual period. <br>At the moment of ovulation, the follicle ruptures, and the egg, al

Ovulation pain

Two days ago, on November 23rd, my girlfriend told me that she experienced cramping pain on both sides of her lower abdomen for about an hour.
Her menstrual period this month was from November 2nd to November 8th, and her cycle typically ranges from 28 to 32 days.
I think it might be ovulation pain, but she mentioned that she has never experienced anything like this before.
Based on the timing, could this be ovulation pain? How long does ovulation pain usually last? Is it possible for it to last only a little over an hour? Can ovulation pain occur suddenly, even if it has never happened before? Is it possible for ovulation pain to be felt on both sides at the same time?

Piao Mi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/11/25

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: The menstrual period started on November 2, and November 23 is the 22nd day of the menstrual cycle.
Generally, ovulation occurs approximately 12-16 days before the first day of the menstrual period.
At the moment of ovulation, the follicle ruptures, and the egg, along with follicular fluid, enters the abdominal cavity.
The microvessels or small arteries at the rupture site may bleed when the follicle breaks.
If the amount of blood during ovulation is significant, it can stimulate the abdominal cavity and cause pain.
If the volume of blood flowing into the abdominal cavity is small, the pain may be localized and could resolve within 1-2 hours.
However, if a larger artery is ruptured and there is a significant amount of bleeding, the pain may be more widespread and last longer.
If the bleeding does not stop, it can lead to the formation of a corpus luteum hematoma, which may cause pain for several days.
A corpus luteum hematoma may rupture due to excessive internal pressure or external trauma, such as during intercourse, resulting in bleeding into the abdominal cavity.
Thank you for your message!

Reply Date: 2012/11/25

More Info

Ovulation pain, also known as mittelschmerz, is a common phenomenon experienced by many women during their menstrual cycle. It typically occurs around the time of ovulation, which is usually about 14 days before the start of the next menstrual period in a regular cycle. For your girlfriend, with a menstrual cycle of 28-32 days, ovulation would likely occur between days 14 and 18 of her cycle. Given that her last menstrual period was from November 2 to November 8, the timing of her pain on November 23 could indeed align with ovulation, especially if her cycle is on the longer side.

Duration and Symptoms of Ovulation Pain
Ovulation pain can vary in duration and intensity. It typically lasts from a few minutes to a few hours, but in some cases, it can persist for up to 48 hours. The pain is often described as a sharp or cramp-like sensation on one side of the lower abdomen, depending on which ovary is releasing an egg. It is not uncommon for women to experience pain on both sides, especially if both ovaries are active or if the pain radiates.

Variability of Ovulation Pain
It is also important to note that ovulation pain can vary from cycle to cycle and from woman to woman. Some women may experience it every month, while others may only have it occasionally or not at all. It is entirely possible for your girlfriend to experience ovulation pain for the first time, even if she has had regular menstrual cycles in the past without any discomfort. Factors such as hormonal changes, stress, or even changes in physical activity can influence the occurrence and intensity of ovulation pain.

Pain on Both Sides
Regarding the possibility of experiencing pain on both sides, this can happen. While ovulation pain typically occurs on one side, some women report bilateral pain. This could be due to various reasons, such as referred pain from one ovary affecting the other side or the involvement of surrounding structures in the pelvic area.

Conclusion
In summary, based on the timing and description of your girlfriend's symptoms, it is plausible that she experienced ovulation pain. The duration of about an hour is within the normal range for ovulation pain, and it is not uncommon for women to experience this sensation for the first time at different points in their reproductive lives. If the pain persists, increases in intensity, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as heavy bleeding, fever, or severe discomfort), it would be advisable for her to consult a healthcare provider to rule out other potential causes.
Understanding ovulation pain can help women better manage their menstrual health and recognize normal bodily changes. If your girlfriend continues to have questions or concerns about her menstrual cycle or any pain she experiences, encouraging her to speak with a healthcare professional can provide her with personalized advice and reassurance.

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