Why can ovulation cause stomach pain?

Ovulation pain may be a brief ache, cramp or sharper twinge on one side of the lower abdomen. It can shift sides between cycles and may occur with light spotting or increased discharge. Pain higher in the abdomen, pain linked to meals, diarrhoea, vomiting or a swollen abdomen may point to a digestive cause instead. Acid reflux, gastritis, food poisoning and gastroenteritis can all cause abdominal symptoms; coeliac disease, Crohn's disease, diverticular disease or gallstones are other conditions a clinician may consider.

Keep a record of the pain's side, timing, duration, severity and relationship to periods, food or bowel movements. Rest, use gentle warmth, drink fluids and choose simple meals if your stomach feels unsettled. Check with a pharmacist or clinician before taking pain medicine if you might be pregnant, have stomach disease, or take regular medicines.

Seek urgent help for sudden severe pain, fainting, heavy vaginal bleeding, shoulder-tip pain, fever, repeated vomiting, a rigid abdomen, or pain with a possible pregnancy. Arrange a medical review when pain keeps returning, lasts beyond the expected mid-cycle period, interferes with daily activities, or comes with unusual discharge or bowel changes.

Ask whether the pattern fits ovulation, whether a pregnancy test or examination is needed, and which pain-relief options suit your health history.