Mittelschmerz, the medical term for ovulation pain, affects up to 40% of reproductive-age women every month, according to studies. The German word translates to 'middle pain,' as it typically occurs mid-cycle, around 14 days before a period.
What Does Mittelschmerz Feel Like?
Dr Hina Gauher, women's health lead at Boots Online Doctor, told Metro that the pain 'may feel like a dull ache or come as sudden, sharp twinges,' often on one side of the lower abdomen. While most episodes last only minutes, some women experience mild discomfort for up to two days.
Scientists suggest the condition could be even more widespread, as many women may dismiss the pain without recognizing it as a known symptom.
Causes of Ovulation Pain
Ovulation occurs when an ovary releases an egg, usually 10 to 16 days before the next period. Dr Crystal Wyllie at Asda Online Doctor explained to Metro that the pain results from 'the follicle that contains the egg stretching and breaking open to release it,' calling it a 'harmless' part of reproduction.
Dr Gauher noted that the pain appears on the side of the ovary releasing the egg, sometimes accompanied by slight vaginal bleeding or discharge due to oestrogen fluctuations.
When to Seek Medical Advice
The NHS states ovulation pain is common, usually resolves quickly, and is generally nothing to worry about. However, Dr Gauher warned that 'it can be easy to confuse the condition with others that cause similar pain,' including endometriosis, ovarian cysts, scar tissue from pelvic surgery, or STIs like chlamydia.
She recommends speaking to a GP if pain doesn't improve with pain relief, keeps recurring, or if an STI is suspected.
Managing Mittelschmerz
For mild pain, Dr Wyllie said: 'Over-the-counter pain relief and other at-home treatments like a warm bath or heating pad are usually effective at treating ovulation pain.' For troublesome symptoms, a GP may suggest oral contraceptives to stop ovulation, or refer for further tests if another cause is suspected.
Tracking your cycle can help identify the pattern. If the one-sided pang recurs around the same time monthly, it's likely mittelschmerz—but persistent or worsening pain warrants a check-up.
