$Unique_ID{BRK01217}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is Pain From Monthly Ovulation Normal?}
$Subject{periods pain mittelschmerz genitourinary system abdomen menstrual
monthly ovulation ovary egg separation separates ovaries period pains
abdominal menstruation menstruate menstruated month months ovulate eggs
separate}
$Volume{J-14}
$Log{
The Menstrual Cycle*0009101.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is Pain From Monthly Ovulation Normal?


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QUESTION:  As a forty year old woman, I encounter a burning pain, severe at
times, in the right lower abdomen for one to three days, occurring halfway
between my menstrual periods each and every month.  Three different doctors
have found nothing wrong, and all said the pain is from monthly ovulation and
is normal.  I find this hard to believe.  I would certainly appreciate any
comment you can offer on this condition.

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ANSWER:  With very few exceptions you offer a classical history of a patient
suffering with a condition known as "mittelschmerz".  This word from the
German describes a "middle pain" or pain that arrives each month at the time
of ovulation.  In almost all women, ovulation occurs 14 days before the onset
of the next period, and for women with a 28 day cycle, ovulation occurs at
exactly the mid point of their "menstrual month".  During ovulation, when the
mature egg separates from the ovary to begin its journey through the fallopian
tubes to the uterus, the ovary may bleed at the point of egg separation.
Though an insignificant amount of blood escapes, it can fall on sensitive
tissues nearby, where an inflammatory reaction produces the pain.  It is
normal, in your case, and may be controlled by using an antiinflammatory
analgesic such as ibuprofen.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.