Ovarian pain

I just went on Provera for the second time this year hoping to induce a period, I starting a period but it's not near as heavy as the first time i went on Provera. Is this normal? The doctor is wanting to do blood work on the 3rd day of my period to test if my ovaries are functioning properly (I don't think they are). I experience severe pain on my right side of my stomach in the location of my right ovary. I've had exploratory surgery and have had at least 5 ultra sounds, 4 doctors and every doctor has a different answers and none of them know what the problem is. This has been ongoing for almost 3 years. Any advice?

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
As you know, Provera "induces" a period.  So, basically, it causes the lining to slough off--how thick the lining is determines how much flow you will experience.
If you were my patient, I would do the blood work on day 3.  An FSH, a TSH and a prolactin level are good tests to start with.  Your FSH will help to distinguish between PCOS and menopause (as well as a few other conditions).
If you were my patient, I would also be preparing you for the idea of another surgery.  It certainly sounds like you may have endometriosis, or adhesions (scar tissue) built up in there around that right ovary.
I hope this helps!
Dr B