Ovarian pain is a common concern for women, and if you’re experiencing discomfort in your lower abdomen, it’s natural to wonder, “Why Do My Ovaries Hurt?” Pain in the ovarian region can be unsettling, prompting questions about its causes and what steps to take next. Understanding the nature of ovarian pain, its potential origins, and when it warrants medical attention is crucial for your health and peace of mind.
Ovarian pain is typically felt in the lower abdomen, specifically below the belly button and in the pelvic area. The sensation can vary widely, ranging from a persistent, dull ache to sudden, sharp bursts of pain. While it can be alarming, experiencing pain in the ovaries is not uncommon, and often, there are identifiable and manageable causes.
It’s important to recognize that pain perceived as ovarian might sometimes originate from nearby organs. The appendix, bladder, and intestines are all located close to the ovaries, and conditions affecting these organs, such as appendicitis, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or gastrointestinal issues, can sometimes mimic the feeling of ovarian pain. This overlap in sensation underscores the importance of seeking professional medical advice to accurately diagnose the source of your discomfort.
What Could Be Causing Pain in My Ovaries?
There are numerous reasons why you might be experiencing pain in your ovaries. These causes span a spectrum from benign, temporary conditions to more serious underlying health issues. Some of the common culprits behind ovarian pain include ovarian cysts, ovulation pain, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and, in rare cases, ovarian cancer. Let’s delve into each of these potential causes to better understand their symptoms and implications.
Ovarian Cysts: Fluid-Filled Sacs on the Ovaries
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on the ovaries. It’s important to distinguish them from ovarian tumors, which are solid masses. The vast majority of ovarian cysts are benign and cause no symptoms whatsoever. However, if a cyst grows larger, ruptures, or twists (ovarian torsion), it can lead to discomfort and significant pain.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts:
- Pelvic or Abdominal Pain: This is a primary symptom, and it can manifest as ovary pain itself, or even pain experienced when urinating, sometimes described as ovary pain when peeing.
- Abdominal Fullness or Heaviness: A feeling of pressure or weight in the lower abdomen.
- Bloating: Increased abdominal distention.
- Nausea or Vomiting: In more severe cases, particularly with cyst rupture or torsion.
Ovulation Pain (Mittelschmerz): Pain During Egg Release
Ovulation pain, also known by the German term Mittelschmerz (meaning “middle pain”), is pain associated with ovulation, the monthly release of an egg from an ovary. This typically occurs around 14 days before the start of your next menstrual period.
Symptoms of Ovulation Pain:
- One-Sided Pelvic Pain: Ovulation pain is usually felt on only one side of the pelvis, corresponding to the ovary releasing the egg. The pain may alternate sides each month or consistently occur on the same side.
- Pain Intensity Variation: The pain can range from a mild, dull ache to a sharp, sudden twinge.
- Light Spotting or Vaginal Discharge: Some women may experience slight vaginal bleeding or increased discharge during ovulation.
Endometriosis: Tissue Growth Outside the Uterus
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) grows outside of the uterus. This tissue can implant on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other pelvic organs.
The endometrial tissue, wherever it’s located, responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, thickening and bleeding each month just like the uterine lining. However, because this blood has no way to exit the body when it’s outside the uterus, it can cause inflammation, pain, and scar tissue. When endometriosis affects the ovaries, it can lead to the formation of endometriomas, which are cysts filled with old blood, further contributing to ovarian pain.
Symptoms of Endometriosis:
- Chronic Pelvic Pain: Including persistent ovary pain that may worsen during menstruation.
- Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia): Pain during or after sexual activity.
- Heavy or Abnormal Menstrual Bleeding: Periods may be excessively heavy or prolonged.
- Painful Urination or Bowel Movements During Periods: Pain associated with menstruation affecting bladder or bowel function.
- Other Gastrointestinal Issues: Such as bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, particularly during periods.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Infection of Reproductive Organs
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the female reproductive organs. It’s often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia and gonorrhea, but can also result from other infections not sexually transmitted. PID can affect the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, leading to significant pain and potential complications if left untreated.
Symptoms of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID):
- Lower Abdominal Pain: Including pain that feels like it’s coming from the ovaries.
- Fever: Elevated body temperature indicating infection.
- Unusual Vaginal Discharge: Discharge that is different in color, consistency, or odor, often with a foul smell.
- Pain or Bleeding During Sex: Discomfort or bleeding associated with sexual activity.
- Burning Sensation During Urination: Painful urination, similar to a UTI.
- Bleeding Between Periods: Irregular vaginal bleeding outside of menstruation.
Ovarian Cancer: Tumors on the Ovaries
Ovarian cancer encompasses several types of cancers that originate in the ovaries, including epithelial ovarian cancer, germ cell ovarian cancer, stromal cell ovarian cancer, and small cell carcinoma (SCCO). While these cancers are all “ovarian” in that they affect the ovaries, they differ in their origins, treatments, and prognoses.
As ovarian cancers develop, tumors grow on one or both ovaries. Early-stage ovarian cancer often presents with subtle or no symptoms, which is why it is frequently diagnosed at later stages. When symptoms do appear, ovarian pain can be one of them, particularly as the cancer progresses.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer:
- Persistent and Severe Ovarian Pain: Pain that is more intense and longer-lasting than typical menstrual discomfort.
- Bloating: Persistent abdominal bloating.
- Pelvic or Abdominal Pain: General discomfort in the pelvic or abdominal area, which can include ovary pain.
- Difficulty Eating or Feeling Full Quickly: Changes in appetite and satiety.
- Urinary Symptoms: Increased urinary urgency (feeling a sudden need to urinate) or frequency (urinating more often).
If you are experiencing persistent or concerning ovary pain, it is essential to consult a medical professional, ideally a gynecologist, to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate guidance.
When Should I See a Doctor for Ovary Pain?
The reasons behind ovarian pain can range from minor and self-limiting to more serious conditions requiring medical intervention. Determining the cause of your pain is crucial for appropriate treatment. Tracking your symptoms – when the pain occurs, what it feels like, and any accompanying symptoms – can be extremely helpful for your doctor in making a diagnosis.
Even if your ovarian pain is not debilitating, it’s important to discuss it with a healthcare professional, preferably a gynecologist. Early evaluation and diagnosis are key to managing any underlying condition effectively. A gynecologist may perform a comprehensive pelvic exam, which could include a transvaginal or pelvic ultrasound, radiological tests such as a CT scan, and/or a CA-125 blood test to investigate the cause of your ovary pain and ensure you receive the appropriate care. Don’t hesitate to find a gynecologist to discuss your concerns and get the answers you need.
