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I get cramping 3-7 days after intercourse post ovulation period

by SMH
(South Carolina)

I am 41 years old. I had one child at 35 and the other at 36. Since that time, I have been trying to conceive and have been unsuccessful.
I had one miscarriage after seven weeks (empty sac) at age 40.

One thing I have noticed is that I will get cramps (as if I am about to get my period) 3-7 days following intercourse (after I have ovulated). It seems as if I may have conceived but that my body is rejecting the egg from implanting by cramping up.

My OBGYN said my hormone levels are normal and that she has never heard of this type of symptom. She thinks that due to my age, my eggs are not able to fertilize as well, yet she says that clomid and hcg may help increase my chances of becoming pregnant. I want to try the Natpro yet I am worried that if my progesterone levels are normal, I will be taking too much and if I do get pregnant it can harm my baby.

What are your thoughts? Thanks in advance for any help you can provide.

Comments for I get cramping 3-7 days after intercourse post ovulation period

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Aug 07, 2009
 I get cramping 3-7 days after intercourse post ovulation period
by: Wray

It's difficult to judge what's happening without more info, as I take it the cramping does not cause a period and the expulsion of the embryo. That in fact your period comes at the normal time and you don't have spotting beforehand. It could be the corpus luteum left behind after ovulation is not making sufficient progesterone.

Progesterone is an anti-inflammatory and prevents prostaglandin increase, one of the causes of pain during our periods. Clomid forces the ovaries to produce more eggs, it will not make them any 'younger'. hCG levels increase after fertilisation and stimulates the corpus luteum to make more progesterone to ensure the embryo stays embedded. Progesterone is vital for this. Supplementing with progesterone will have the same affect.

A low level of progesterone after ovulation and fertilisation will cause a miscarriage. This can occur within the first two weeks or the first 4 months. Even pre-term births can be caused by a drop in progesterone levels. Finally when were your progesterone levels checked, it could be they had fallen back to 'normal' when you had the test done. Progesterone is vital for a successful pregnancy, we do have a web page on pregnancy, you might like to look at it. Take care, Wray
Nov 17, 2010
 Me too!
by: Lovebebe

Hi, I just thought I would say that I have the exact problem! I start cramping and it makes me think that the egg isn't even having a chance. So frustrating. If you find out what helps you please post!!!! Thanks
Nov 20, 2010
 Me too!
by: Wray

H there If the cramping occurs at ovulation, this is normal in about 20% of women. It's called Mittelschmerz, after the the German word meaning 'middle pain'. See here. Take care Wray

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