When an egg is released from an ovary follicle during ovulation, some women experience a sensation referred to as ovulation pain.
Ovulation pain is also known as mittelschmerz, which is German for mid pain.
So, what does ovulation pain feel like?
It can feel like a sharp, or like a dull cramp, and happens on the side of the abdomen where the ovary is releasing an egg (1–3).
It generally happens 10-16 days before the start of your period, is not dangerous, and is usually mild.
How long does ovulation pain last?
About one in five women experience pain during ovulation that can last from a few minutes to 48 hours. This pain is usually harmless, but can sometimes indicate various medical conditions such as endometriosis.
If you experience this pain for three days or longer, see your healthcare professional as soon as possible.
If the pain is accompanied with other unexpected symptoms, see a gynecologist so that they can look for the underlying cause of the pain.
5 most common causes of ovulation pain
1. Cysts on the ovaries
Ovulation pain is often the sign of cysts on the ovaries. Cysts can form, or can burst, during the ovulation period.
Women with (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) PCOS often experience ovulation pain due to multiple ovarian cysts.
Cystic ovaries are the result of a hormonal imbalance, usually related to insulin resistance.
Sugar and grains in the diet cause spikes in blood sugar levels, and also cause inflammation in the body.
Significantly reducing or eliminating sugars and grains can be highly beneficial.
2. Adhesions from prior surgery
Perhaps you’ve had a c-section, your appendix out, or other abdominal surgery.
Adhesions are hard to avoid after having surgery, and are quite common. Unfortunately, it can result in ovulation pain.
Sometimes, an ovary can adhere to the bowel or other internal parts, which can cause pain during ovulation.
3. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is an inflammatory disease which affects the ovaries and fallopian tubes. It can also cause pain during the ovulatory period.
Other symptoms of endometriosis include: pain during intercourse, migraines, constipation, headaches, and dizziness.
Some women with endometriosis can be asymptomatic. This is why it’s important to see a specialist if you’re experiencing any fertility issues.
4. Sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are also possible causes of ovulation pain. One example of an STI is chlamydia.
It can cause inflammation in the fallopian tubes, scarring, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
Chlamydia can also cause another condition, which results in the fallopian tubes being blocked with pus, causing inflammation and pain.
5. Bacteria from medical procedures
Bacteria can be introduced into the pelvic cavity through catheters, during surgery, and even in childbirth.
The bacteria can cause inflammation and infection, resulting in ovulation pain.
Do you get ovulation pain?
If yes, it is worth getting checked out by a healthcare professional.
The pain you are experiencing may be normal, but then again, it might not be. It is always best just to get it checked for your peace of mind. It could save you in the long run.
Some women get a one-sided pain in their lower abdomen when they ovulate. It happens about 14 days before your period, when an ovary releases an egg as part of the menstrual cycle.
As you get close to ovulation, your cervical mucus will become copious, clear and slippery—like egg whites. It stretches between your fingers. Once your discharge becomes scant and sticky again, ovulation is over. This is how to know when ovulation is finished.
What does ovulation discharge look like?
You may see more clear, stretchy, watery, and slippery mucus. This mucus may remind you of the consistency of egg whites during ovulation. The clear, stretchy mucus that’s the consistency of egg whites will be present during ovulation.
Does Ovulation have a smell?
One of the signs that ovulation is imminent is a heightened sense of smell. For many women, smell becomes more sensitive during the latter half of their normal menstrual cycle. This is typically a sign of ovulation.
Why do I feel bloated during ovulation?
The primary cause of ovulation bloating is the hormonal changes that occur during and after ovulation. These hormonal changes may play havoc with your digestive tract. Due to high estrogen levels, your body may retain more water. The combined effect of these changes is bloating during ovulation.