Do you sometimes remember a pain that comes from the lower abdomen , or from the back, like from the hips? Maybe this pain is only on one side, or it can be on both sides. Many women experience this kind of pain. This is what we call ovarian pain. This pain sometimes comes and goes. Sometimes it is constant. So, is this pain normal? Or should we be concerned about this? Let's talk about all this today.
First, let's see, what are these ovaries?
Simply put, the ovaries are a very important part of a woman's reproductive system. They are two small, egg-shaped glands located on either side of your uterus . There is one on the right side and one on the left. They have two main functions.
1. Production and storage of eggs: The eggs needed to make a child are produced and stored in these ovaries until they mature.
2. Hormone production: These ovaries produce the hormones needed for your monthly menstrual cycle to function properly and for ovulation to occur.
So, why do these ovaries hurt? What are the causes?
There can be several reasons why the ovaries hurt. Some of them are not something to be too worried about. However, there are some pains that can be a symptom of a serious illness. Therefore, it is very important to be aware of this.
| The cause of the pain | Description and feel | Seriously? |
|---|---|---|
| Ovulation Pain | A slight pain that occurs when an egg is released in the middle of the menstrual cycle. It is felt only on one side. It goes away in a few days. | There is often no need to be afraid. |
| Menstruation pain | Pain caused by uterine contractions before or during menstruation can be felt in the ovarian area. | Don't be afraid. |
| Ovarian Cyst | Water-filled blisters that form on the ovaries. These can cause pain, pain during sex, and irregular periods. Sometimes these can rupture and cause severe pain. | It is usually not a cancerous condition, but medical advice is needed. |
| Endometriosis | Tissue that should be inside the uterus grows outside the uterus (on the ovaries, fallopian tubes). It causes severe pain and cramping. It can make it difficult to have children. | A condition that requires attention. Medical treatment is essential. |
| Uterine Fibroids | Non-cancerous lumps that form in the muscles of the uterus. The pain caused by these can also be felt in the ovarian area. Heavy bleeding is also a symptom. | Medical advice is needed. |
| Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) | An infection that affects the organs of the pelvic cavity, including the ovaries. This can cause permanent damage and prevent you from having children. | It's serious. You need to get treatment quickly. |
| Ectopic Pregnancy | The implantation of a baby outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube, causes severe pain and is a medical emergency. | Extremely serious. Must be hospitalized immediately. |
| Ovarian Cancer | This is a very rare condition. Symptoms may include a sharp pain, a feeling of fullness, and other symptoms that are different from normal pain. | It's serious. But most ovarian pain is not cancer. It's important to see a doctor if you have any concerns. |
| Ovarian Torsion | The ovary twists around the ligaments that hold it in place. This causes sudden, unbearable, sharp pain. This is also a medical emergency. | Extremely serious. Immediate surgery is required. |
Other things that may be mistaken for ovarian pain
This is also very important. Your ovaries are located in the lower abdomen. That's where many other organs, such as your intestines, kidneys, and appendix , are located. So, pain from a problem in one of those organs can be mistaken for ovarian pain.
Think about things like this:
- Appendicitis : This pain also starts in the right side of the lower abdomen.
- Kidney stones: This pain can start in the hips and travel down to the lower abdomen.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Symptoms include lower abdominal pain and the need to urinate frequently.
- Constipation: Lower abdominal pain can also occur due to decreased bowel function.
So, don't assume that it's an ovarian problem just because you have lower abdominal pain. However, to know exactly what it is, you should definitely see a doctor.
How can the doctor find the cause of this?
When you go to see a doctor, he will first ask you a few questions.
- When did the pain start?
- Does this pain increase or decrease with the menstrual cycle?
- What is the pain like? (e.g., is it sharp, dull , or does it come and go?)
- Does this pain interfere with your daily activities?
Then, a physical examination, especially a pelvic exam, may be performed as needed. In addition, the following tests may be ordered to help determine the exact cause:
- Pelvic Ultrasound: This is very important to check for ovarian cysts or other abnormalities.
- Blood and urine tests: To check for infections.
- CT or MRI scans in some special cases.
- Laparoscopy: Examination of the inside of the abdominal cavity using a small camera.
What are the treatments for ovarian pain?
Treatment depends on the cause of your pain. Not everyone is given the same treatment. Treatment varies depending on the diagnosis.
- Hormonal medications: Birth control pills and patches are used to control hormone levels and reduce pain.
- Painkillers: Painkillers such as ``(NSAIDs)`` for general pain.
- Antibiotics: If there is an infection such as PID.
- Surgery: Surgery (Laparoscopy or Laparotomy) may be necessary to remove tumors, endometriosis tissue, or in emergencies such as ovarian torsion.
- Applying a hot water bottle: Provides relief for common aches and pains.
When should you be concerned about ovarian pain immediately?
It's best to tell your doctor about any persistent, uncontrollable pain. While some pain is not serious, it's important to be aware of it for safety's sake. In particular, if your pain is accompanied by one or more of the following symptoms , be sure to see a doctor immediately.
- Sudden, unbearable, severe abdominal pain.
- Pain accompanied by fever, vomiting, or fainting .
- Irregular menstruation or bleeding between periods.
- Bleeding after menopause.
- Severe pain during sexual intercourse.
- Heavy bleeding that requires changing a pad or tampon every hour.
Remember, in case of sudden, sharp pain, such as an ectopic pregnancy or ovarian torsion, go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
Take-Home Message
- Ovarian pain can have a variety of causes, from normal menstrual cycle changes to serious medical conditions.
- Never ignore persistent, severe, or unusual abdominal pain.
- If you experience sudden, severe pain accompanied by symptoms such as fever and vomiting, it may be a medical emergency. Go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
- Don't self-diagnose. If you have pain, definitely see a doctor to find out the exact cause and get the right treatment.
- Many problems can be identified early by undergoing an annual gynecological exam.











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