Ovulation pain (mittelschmerz): normal or not?

Ovulation pain (mittelschmerz) is a one-sided ache or twinge in the lower tummy around the middle of your cycle, when an ovary releases an egg. The NHS says about 1 in 5 people get it. It lasts from minutes to about 48 hours and usually eases with painkillers and heat. Severe or lasting pain should be checked.

Ovulation pain is a one-sided lower-tummy ache mid-cycle; the NHS says about 1 in 5 people get it.

It lasts minutes to about 48 hours and usually responds to painkillers and heat.

Severe, long-lasting or unusual pain, or pain when you could be pregnant, needs checking.

Ovulation pain, also called mittelschmerz (German for “middle pain”), is a one-sided ache or twinge in the lower tummy around the middle of your cycle, when an ovary releases an egg. The NHS says it affects about 1 in 5 people who have periods and is usually harmless.

What does ovulation pain feel like?

A dull ache or a sudden sharp twinge, low down on one side.
Lasting from a few minutes to about 48 hours.
Sometimes with a little spotting or extra clear, stretchy discharge.
It can switch sides from month to month, depending on which ovary releases the egg.

When does ovulation pain happen?

Ovulation usually happens 10 to 16 days before your next period, so in a 28-day cycle the pain tends to show up around day 14. If your cycles are longer or irregular, it comes later or varies.

What helps ovulation pain?

Simple painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (check they are suitable for you).
A warm bath or hot water bottle.
If it is severe every month, hormonal contraception that stops ovulation can help: talk to a GP.

Ovulation pain (mittelschmerz): normal or not?