What Is Ovulation Pain?

Ovulation pain, or mittelschmerz, is an ache or pain—sometimes with discharge or spotting—that may be caused by blood and fluid from a rupture of a follicle on the ovary. It may also be caused by the fallopian tube contracting or the egg bursting from the follicle. One in five women experience pain during the time of ovulation.

Typical ovulation pain occurs around the middle of your cycle—day 14 in a 28-day cycle—and lasts anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of days.

It is most often felt low in the pelvis to one side, which may change each month, depending on which side the egg is released. Some people also experience nausea.

Symptoms 

Symptoms of ovulation pain include:

• Mild to more intense pain that may be on one side
• Nausea
• Light bleeding or spotting
• Vaginal discharge

The pain from ovulation is often described as dull and achy, but can also be sharp. It may grow gradually or be suddenly painful. Very rarely is the pain severe. If you experience pain around ovulation, be sure to keep a record of:

• When you felt it
• A description of the pain
• Any other symptoms you have

Your doctor can use these records to help determine the cause of your pain and possible treatment options.

Risks

Generally, ovulation pain is not a risk and is part of a regular cycle. It doesn’t affect your ability to become pregnant and may indicate to you when ovulation is occurring.

Your doctor may perform tests such as:

• Pelvic exam
• Ultrasound
• Blood test
• Urine test

Signs of something more severe that require medical attention include:

• Fever greater than 100.4 F
• Severe pain mid-cycle lasting more than one day or occurs monthly
• Missed periods
• Intense nausea or vomiting
• Pain upon urination or sex
• Burning sensation or redness where the pain is felt
• Pain that is not responding to over-the-counter pain relief medications

Causes

The causes of ovulation pain are still unclear, but there are a few theories:

• Swelling or rupturing of a follicle on the ovary releases some extra fluid, which may lead to a dull ache.
• The egg bursting out of the follicle can cause the sharp, sudden pain some people feel.
• The pain is the result of spasms of the fallopian tubes or uterus as ovulation approaches.

Other pain around the time you think you are ovulating may point to other conditions, including:

• Implantation
• Ectopic pregnancy

It can be difficult to distinguish between implantation and ovulation pain. To do so, take note of the timing of your pain.

A Word From Verywell

Pain in your abdomen can be alarming and uncomfortable. Ovulation pain is not a health risk and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. For any pain that you are concerned about, no matter how mild, speak to your doctor. If you experience any of the serious warning signs—like heavy bleeding, nausea, or vomiting—call your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical care.