One-sided lower abdominal pain that occurs in women at or around the time of ovulation.

Alternative Names

Ovulation pain; Midcycle pain

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

There are several explanations for the cause of ovulation pain. The pain may occur just before, during, or after ovulation. Just prior to ovulation, follicle growth may stretch the surface of the ovary causing pain. At the time of ovulation, fluid or blood is released from the ruptured egg follicle and may cause irritation of the abdominal lining. About 20% of women experience ovulation pain. It may be felt on one side one month, then switch to the opposite side, or it may be felt on the same side for several months in succession.

Signs and tests

A pelvic examination shows no abnormalities. Other diagnostic procedures (such as an abdominal ultrasound ) may be performed to rule out other causes of ovarian pain if ovulatory pain is prolonged.

Treatment

No treatment is usually necessary. Pain relievers ( analgesics ) may be needed in cases of prolonged or intense pain.

Expectations (prognosis)

The outcome is expected to be excellent.

Complications

There are usually no complications.

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if midcycle ovulation pain seems to change or become unusually prolonged.

Prevention

Hormonal forms of contraception can be taken to prevent ovulation and therefore ovulatory pain, otherwise there is no known prevention.