How to Manage Abdominal Pain from Ovulation Pain

Do you experience abdominal pain around your ovulation period? This could be ovulation pain. Ovulation pain refers to the lower abdominal pain that occurs just before or after ovulation. Although it may feel similar to menstrual cramps, its causes and mechanisms are entirely different.

Causes and Mechanism of Ovulation Pain

Some potential causes of ovulation pain include the following:

Duration and Characteristics of Ovulation Pain

For a 28-day menstrual cycle, ovulation typically occurs about 13–15 days after the start of menstruation. The "ovulation period" refers to the three days following ovulation. Including the day before ovulation, these four days are when ovulation pain is most likely to occur.

Before ovulation, many people experience a sharp, prickling pain across a wide area of the lower abdomen, which can feel more intense, with a sense of abdominal heaviness or tightness. In addition to abdominal pain, symptoms like fatigue, lower back pain, extreme sleepiness, headaches, dizziness, and nausea can also impact daily life.

After ovulation, the pain often subsides to a mild discomfort in the lower abdomen. Some individuals may also notice slight spotting. Symptoms can vary month by month and from person to person.

Managing Abdominal Pain

If you’re only experiencing abdominal pain without other symptoms, rest in a comfortable position and monitor your symptoms. Warm the abdomen, drink room-temperature water or warm water slowly, and eat small amounts of easily digestible food if you feel able.

When you take medication, follow the dosage instructions. If the pain lasts over half a day, intensifies, or is accompanied by fever or nausea, consult a doctor.