What Causes Ovarian Pain?

Sep 01, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. An Na

Introduction

The ovaries are located in the lower abdominal region. Dull, persistent ovarian pain can arise from numerous causes, including pelvic inflammatory disease, fluid accumulation (e.g., ascites or pelvic effusion), corpus luteum rupture, and ovarian cysts. Ovarian torsion is another potential cause, although it is relatively rare.

The ovaries are one of the most vital organs in the female reproductive system—not only do they confer fertility, but they also play a crucial role in women’s overall health and physical well-being. Ovarian health therefore deserves special attention from women. Should any discomfort—such as pain—arise in the ovarian region, it is essential to promptly identify the underlying cause to safeguard ovarian health. So, what causes ovarian pain? Below, we address this question.

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What Causes Ovarian Pain?

The ovaries are located in the lower abdomen. Dull, persistent ovarian pain may stem from numerous causes, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), pelvic fluid accumulation, corpus luteum rupture, or ovarian cysts. Ovarian torsion—twisting of the ovarian pedicle—is another possible cause, though it occurs relatively infrequently. Additionally, ovulation-related pain (mittelschmerz) may occur: during ovulation in adolescent and reproductive-age women, the follicle ruptures, releasing follicular fluid that irritates the peritoneum. This often results in alternating, mild, unilateral lower abdominal pain—occurring once monthly on either the left or right side—and is considered a normal physiological phenomenon requiring no specific treatment; thus, excessive concern is unwarranted.

Knowledge Extension: What Foods Support Ovarian Health?

1. Black Soybeans

Black soybeans are rich in phytoestrogens and highly nutritious. Regular consumption helps replenish the body’s estrogen levels, thereby supporting ovarian health. Women who enjoy soy milk—and wish to nurture their ovaries—may consider drinking a cup of black soybean milk each morning.

2. Apples

Apples help prevent coronary heart disease, largely due to their high flavonoid content. Moreover, the pectin in apples lowers cholesterol levels, further reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. By promoting cardiovascular health, apples indirectly support normal estrogen secretion by the ovaries. Vitamin C and other nutrients in apples also contribute to maintaining optimal ovarian function.

Above is an overview of the potential causes of ovarian pain. We hope this information proves helpful to you.

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What causes ovarian pain on one side after embryo transfer, and what should be done about it?

In general, one-sided ovarian pain after embryo transfer may be caused by normal physiological changes, medication stimulation, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, or other factors. If the pain persists for a prolonged period, patients are advised to seek timely medical attention. Additionally, one-sided ovarian pain following embryo transfer could also be due to ovarian cysts.