Your own menstrual cycle may vary by a few days each month, and this is not something to worry about. However, if your menstrual cycle varies significantly (by a week or more over a period of several months), it is best to see your doctor. Although there are many non-concerning causes for variable periods, there are some that can be helped with treatment (such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, where periods come infrequently due to hormone imbalance), so a doctor’s advice is always best if you are in doubt.
The second half of the menstrual cycle (after ovulation) tends to be consistent among women at 14 days (14 days before your next period begins). Therefore, if you happen to have notably longer or shorter intervals between periods (as compared to the average of 28 days), know that ovulation can be calculated by charting 14 days prior to the start of each period. Understand that ovulation is when the egg is released by the ovary. It entails rupturing the membrane of the ovary at the location where the egg exits, which can be accompanied by bleeding and a pressure sensation. For many women, this goes unnoticed; however, for some, the blood in the abdominal cavity and pressure against the ovarian membrane can be a notable source of discomfort. [7] X Research source
You may notice that the pain seems to be on only one side of your abdomen at a time. This is because ovulation occurs only on one side or the other, and this varies with each menstrual cycle (it does not alternate, but switches at random). Pain during ovulation may sometimes be accompanied by minor vaginal bleeding; you may also experience some nausea. The pain from ovulation tends to last anywhere from a few hours to two to three days. Approximately 20% of women experience pain mid-cycle with ovulation. In most cases, it is relatively mild, but in some cases it can be severe and unbearable.
Note that different women find different over-the-counter pain medications to be more effective than others, and this varies from woman to woman. If you find that one does not work particularly well, do not hesitate to try another, as you may find greater success in trying another type of medication. [9] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Anti-inflammatory pain medications (such as ibuprofen and/or naproxen) are known to be troublesome for people who have been diagnosed with kidney[10] X Research source or stomach problems. [11] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source If you fall into either of these categories, consult your doctor prior to use. Or, if you notice symptoms of upset stomach after starting the medication, consult your physician for further advice.
The reason heat works so well is that it enhances blood flow to the area of pain, relaxes muscles, and eases cramps. [13] X Research source Some women also report that a cold pack or cold compress can help to alleviate ovarian pain associated with ovulation, so you can try both heat and cold and see what works best for you.
Note that birth control pills are the only effective way to prevent ovulatory pain, as they halt ovulation altogether (by suppressing your natural hormones and therefore preventing ovulation). Birth control pills are therefore the most effective mode of treatment for painful ovulation, if home remedies (such as heat or cold) and over-the-counter medications are insufficient. See your doctor to discuss the pros and cons of birth control pills and whether they are the right choice for you. You may also wish to chart your menstrual cycle over a few months time and bring this in to your doctor so that he or she can have a clearer picture of what’s going, and perhaps come up with a more specific diagnosis.
Fever Painful urination Redness or inflammation of the skin on your abdomen or pelvis Severe nausea or vomiting Heavy vaginal bleeding Abnormal vaginal discharge Abdominal swelling
