The ovaries are an important part of the female reproductive system. Their job is to produce hormones including estrogen and progesterone as well as to release one egg each month for possible fertilization.
A number of different factors from cysts to tumors can cause left ovarian pain. As the ovaries are located in the lower abdomen, the ovarian pain will most likely be felt below the navel. Pain in the ovaries can either be acute or chronic. Acute ovarian pain comes on quickly and resolves in a short period of time. Chronic ovarian pain, on the other hand, usually starts gradually and lasts for several months. Left ovarian pain may be continuous or intermittent. It could get worse with certain activities like exercises or urination. It can be mild or severe.
It is important to have any pelvic pain checked out by a doctor or gynecologist. Several different conditions can cause pain in the left ovary.
1. Ovarian cysts. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form in the ovaries. They are very common in women, especially during the reproductive years. Often they are formed when the egg is not released or when the follicle holding the egg does not dissolve after the egg is released. They do not cause any symptoms but there may be a dull ache and risk of ovarian torsion or rupture.
2. Ovarian tumors. Tumors can form in the ovaries and may be cancerous or benign.
3. Endometriosis. When an egg is not fertilized, the uterine lining sheds and is released from the body via menstruation. In some women, tissue like the lining of the uterus develops elsewhere in the body. This tissue swells and bleeds each month. It has nowhere to shed and so forms scar tissue and can be very painful.
4. Pelvic inflammatory disease. PID is an infection in the ovaries, uterus, or fallopian tubes. It is most often caused by sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea or Chlamydia.
5. Ovarian Remnant Syndrome. During hysterectomy/oophorectomy a small piece of the ovary may accidentally be left behind. The remnant can grow and develop painful cysts.
6. Pain associated with ovulation. The pain may occur just before, during, or after ovulation.
Treatment will depend on the diagnosis of the left ovary pain. Ovarian cysts and pain associated with ovulation generally do not require any treatment as it disappears over time. But along with conventional medicine it is advisable to approach the problem from holistic medicine point of view. Any disease in the body is a reflection of the imbalance between its physical, mental, emotional and at times even spiritual factors. So, bringing about a balance will promote health and well being. This approach is safe, permanent as well as cheaper in the long run.