WHAT OVULATION PAIN MEANS?

Ovulation pain is usually harmless, but can sometimes indicate various medical conditions such as endometriosis. See your GP (doctor) if your ovulation pain lasts longer than three days or is associated with other unusual menstrual symptoms, such as heavy bleeding.

The following signs could indicate ovulation:

1. Cramping on one side of the body.
2. Rise in basal body temperature.
3. Cervical mucus that's slippery and sticky, like raw egg whites.
4. Increased sex drive.
5. Breast tenderness.
6. Heightened sense of smell or taste.
7. Light spotting.
8. Abdominal bloating.

Some people feel pain for a few minutes, while others experience pain for the entire day. You may also experience:

• Light vaginal bleeding.
• Vaginal discharge that’s stretchy and clear (like egg whites).
• Nausea, if the pain is bad.
• Pain in your low back

A heating pad or hot bath may also help provide pain relief.

For severe ovulation pain, talk to your healthcare provider about taking birth control pills. Hormonal birth control medications prevent ovulation. Without ovulating, you won’t have ovulation pain.

If you take birth control pills, you won’t be able to get pregnant. Talk to your healthcare provider if you wish to start or add to your family.

What treatments are there for painful sex?

The right treatment depends on the cause of the pain.

Simple treatments may involve advice on using a lubricant, longer foreplay or changing sexual technique.

For some women, seeing a physiotherapist who specializes in pelvic floor physiotherapy helps. For others, a psychologist can talk to you about psychological problems or relationship issues that may be contributing.

Your doctor will recommend treatment of any underlying condition that may be causing painful sex. Your doctor may prescribe a medication or ointment to treat the cause of the pain. They may also recommend a change in contraception.