Ovulation pain

What is ovulation?

Ovulation is part of the female menstrual cycle. It happens when a mature egg is released from an ovary. You are most likely to get pregnant if you have unprotected sex around the time of ovulation.

When does ovulation happen?

Ovulation usually happens once a month, about 2 weeks before your next period.

Ovulation does not happen if you are:

• on the pill
• pregnant
• postmenopausal.

Some women do not ovulate regularly. This is common when you first start getting your periods. It can also happen during perimenopause (the lead-up to menopause). Hormone conditions can also affect ovulation, for example polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Symptoms of ovulation pain

Symptoms of ovulation pain vary from person to person. You may experience an uncomfortable pressure, twinges, sharp pains, cramps or strong pain in the lower belly (abdomen). The pain can last from a few minutes to a couple of days.

What causes ovulation pain?

Ovulation pain may be caused by:

• the surface of the ovary swelling before the egg is released
• the egg being released from its sac (mature follicle).

Managing ovulation pain

There are many practical ways to manage ovulation pain. For example:

• relax by having a warm bath, or rest in bed with a heat pack or hot water bottle
• use pain relief or period pain medication (e.g. anti-inflammatories) – ask your GP (doctor) or pharmacist for recommendations
• take the pill or other forms of hormonal contraception, as they stop ovulation.

When to see your doctor

You can usually manage ovulation pain by yourself, but if you have severe pain, see your doctor. It could mean you have other health conditions (e.g. endometriosis, appendicitis or pelvic inflammatory disease).

Your doctor may ask about your medical history and do a physical examination to find the cause of your pain. They might also organise some tests. For example:

• blood tests
• swabs from the cervix for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other bacteria
• an abdominal ultrasound
• a vaginal ultrasound (preferably at the time the pain is occurring)
• exploratory surgery (a laparoscopy or ‘keyhole’ surgery).

You should see your doctor if your ovulation pain lasts longer than 3 days or if it is associated with symptoms such as heavy bleeding or vaginal discharge.

More information

For more detailed information, related resources, articles and podcasts, visit Jean Hailes for Women’s Health.

Where to get help

• GP (doctor)
• Gynaecologist
• A women’s health clinic
• Sexual Health Victoria
• Jean Hailes for Women’s Health