Why do I experience pain during ovulation?
Have you experienced it? A sudden pain. A stinging. Typically on one side of the abdomen. You might be thinking:
“I’m not supposed to have my period now, am I?”
You're only halfway through your cycle. Welcome to ovulation pain—also known as mittelschmerz (German for "middle pain") because it occurs mid-cycle.
It wasn't something many of us learned about in biology class. But it exists. And it's quite common. Up to 40% of menstruating women experience pain around ovulation to a greater or lesser extent.
For some it lasts a few minutes. For others it can last up to a day.
Let's dive into what's actually happening in the body.
What is ovulation pain?
Ovulation pain is pain in the lower abdomen that occurs around the time of ovulation – typically in the middle of the menstrual cycle.
They are caused by the physical and hormonal changes that occur when an egg is released from the ovary.
The pain is basically harmless.
What happens in the body during ovulation?
Since the first day of your bleeding, several eggs in your ovaries have been maturing. They are located in small fluid-filled sacs called follicles.
The vast majority of eggs perish. One dominant egg wins the race (rarely two – hello twins).
When ovulation approaches:
-
Estrogen increases
-
LH (luteinizing hormone) rises sharply
-
The follicle ruptures
-
The egg is released
The LH surge can be measured on ovulation tests and is what triggers ovulation itself.
When the follicle ruptures, a small amount of fluid and/or blood may leak into the abdominal cavity. This can irritate the peritoneum and cause local pain.
In addition, the hormonal change can cause the uterus and fallopian tubes to contract slightly.
It's a small biological event – but the body can feel it.
Where is ovulation pain located?
Typically, ovulation occurs from the right and left ovary alternately, but this is not always the case. However, the pain will be felt locally at the ovaries:
-
On the right or left side of the abdomen
-
The side where the egg is released
Many people experience that it changes from cycle to cycle – but it is not always systematically right/left.
What does ovulation pain feel like?
It varies from person to person.
Some of you describe how you never felt ovulation pain before having children. Suddenly you feel it so clearly (not a super clever arrangement on nature's part, by the way: Pain when you're most fertile, because then sex may be the last thing you want to do).
Typical descriptions:
-
Stabbing pain on one side
-
Haunting sensation
-
Grumbling or cramping
-
Ease pressure or tension
-
Bloating
-
Light spotting
Some describe it as an “electric shock.” Others as menstrual cramps – just on one side. You experience discomfort during ovulation such as:
-
Stabbing or shooting pain on one side of the abdomen
-
Mild tension or bloating
-
Some also experience a little spotting at the same time (here our Everyday panties with light absorption can be really nice)
How long does ovulation pain last?
The length of time ovulation pain is felt varies greatly. It can range from:
-
Few minutes
-
Up to a few hours
-
Rarely more than 24–48 hours
If the pain lasts for several days, is very severe, or is accompanied by fever or heavy bleeding, you should contact a doctor.
Is ovulation pain a sign of fertility?
Yes – indirectly, you could say. The pain occurs around ovulation, which is the time when you are most fertile.
But:
-
Not everyone notices ovulation
-
Not all mid-cycle pain is ovulation
If you're trying to get pregnant, ovulation pain can be one indicator – but it should be combined with cycle tracking, temperature monitoring or ovulation tests.
👉 Read more about how to use your discharge as a superpower here
When should I be concerned?
Ovulation pain is usually harmless. But see a doctor if:
-
The pain is very severe.
-
It lasts several days.
-
You get a fever.
-
You feel nauseous.
-
You are bleeding heavily.
-
The pain feels different than usual
It may be important to rule out:
-
Cysts on the ovaries
-
Endometriosis
-
Infection
-
Appendicitis (if right-sided and severe)
-
Ectopic pregnancy (if pregnancy is possible)
What can I do about ovulation pain?
It's one of those things that, frankly, is a bit unfair that we have to deal with - ovulation pain, just like period pain. But it's a condition for many of us, so let's do what we can to make it just a little bit more pleasant.
1. Track your cycle
When you know when you ovulate, the pain becomes less surprising.
2. Heat
A heating pad, hot bath or sauna can relieve muscle tension.
We have made a beautiful heating pad with organic flax seeds together with I Tråd Med Verden, and many also experience greater calm by using our Calming Cream with magnesium .
3. Rest
Often the pain is short-lived, so take a short break.
4. Painkiller
Ibuprofen or paracetamol may help.
5. Hormonal contraception
Inhibits ovulation – and thus ovulation pain.
Ovulation pain and spotting
Some people experience light spotting around ovulation. This is due, among other things, to the hormonal changes that occur during ovulation.
Lightly absorbent panties can be nice here, you can find the selection right here.
FAQ – Ovulation pain
What is ovulation pain?
Pain in the lower abdomen that occurs around ovulation in the middle of the cycle.
How many people experience this?
Up to 40% experience ovulation pain to varying degrees.
Are ovulation pains dangerous?
No, not as a starting point.
Can you have ovulation pain without having your period?
No – they are related to ovulation in an active cycle.
Does ovulation pain go away with birth control pills?
Yes, often, because ovulation is inhibited.
Is ovulation pain a sure sign of ovulation?
They can be an indicator, but are not 100% certain.
Sources: sundhed.dk, Harlow, SD, & Ephross, SA (1995). Epidemiology of menstruation and its relevance to women's health. Epidemiologic Reviews, 17(2), 265–286, Leone, FP, & Gordon, AG (1980). Mittelschmerz: A clinical study. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 56(6), 655–659.
