Ovulation Cramps

The process by which the mature ovarian follicle ruptures and the ovum (egg) is discharged into the fallopian tube in the menstrual cycle of a woman is known as ovulation. It is the most important process for reproduction and is a sign of fertility.

It takes place midway through the menstrual cycle, around the 14th day, if the length of the menstrual cycle is taken as 28 days. Its symptoms are different in different women. Some can suffer from mild to severe cramps, while, in some cases, the cramps can disrupt the daily activities of a woman.

The other name given to this term is Mittelschmerz. Statistics show that more than 20 to 25% women suffer from ovulation cramps.

There are a number of reasons, which can give rise to cramps before as well as after ovulation. They can often be caused due to an emerging follicle. The expanding follicle stretches the membranes in the ovary, which cause pain. Likewise, a ruptured follicle can also give rise to this condition.

After maturation, the ovum moves out of the follicle, which may cause bleeding, also known as ovulation spotting. The sudden flow of blood may irritate the lining present in the abdominal cavity, which in turn may give rise to a mild cramping feeling.

These cramps happen about two weeks before the next menstruation is due. The pain often occurs in the lower abdomen area. The intensity of the pain is more on any one side, depending on the ovary which released the egg.

The duration of the pain differs in different women. In some women, the pain may last for a minute, and in other women, the pain can be felt for as long as 48 hours. Cramps on both sides are not felt in a single month. The pain is often felt on any one side of the abdomen.

If keen attention is paid to the side where the pain is felt, then understanding which ovary has released the egg is not difficult.

Apart from pain, there are other symptoms of ovulation. Some women feel nauseous. The nausea and pain can last for a few moments or, in some cases, can also last for a couple of days. Light vaginal bleeding can also be experienced by some women. Most women suffer from light to throbbing headaches as well.

Unless the cramps are severe, no treatment is usually necessary. Over-the-counter medicines like pain killers can be taken. If the pain is unbearable, you may want to visit your healthcare professional.

The healthcare professional may prescribe hormonal birth control pills to counteract these cramps. However, it is recommended that you do not go for self-medication. Often, during ovulation, the natural urge to drink water may reduce.

Hence, you may want to make it a point to drink 8 to 10 glasses of water everyday. Water will keep you well hydrated, which will help in alleviating the cramps.

If you have heating pads, you may want to make use of them to alleviate the pain. Place the heating pad on the lower abdomen region for not more than 15 minutes. This will soothe the cramps. If required, you may want to use it again.

You need not worry even if you do not have heating pads. You can, instead, take a warm bath. Sit in the tub filled with warm water and relax for sometime. You can also make use of aromatherapy oils. Hot water will help you relax and alleviate the pain. A cup of hot tea will also prove to be beneficial.

If you suffer from cramps while on the pill, then you may want to visit your healthcare professional to find out the cause. They will be in a better position to treat you by looking at your condition. If you are planning your pregnancy, then you can use these cramps as indicators of the most fertile days of your menstrual cycle.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.