When Ovulation Pain Feels Like Period Pain

As an ovarian follicle grows and releases an egg, nearby tissues can become sensitive. Fluid released at ovulation may also irritate the pelvic lining. This can create a dull ache, pulling feeling or cramp on one side or across the lower abdomen. Unlike period cramps, ovulation pain usually appears between periods and may be shorter-lived, although experiences vary.

Cramping alone cannot tell you whether ovulation is the cause. Endometriosis can cause cyclical pelvic pain, and an ovarian cyst can cause pressure or aching that resembles cramps. Note whether the sensation is linked to bleeding, bowel movements, sex, urination or a particular point in your cycle.

A heat pack, rest, hydration and gentle stretching may ease mild discomfort. Keep a cycle diary with the pain quality, side, start and stop times, bleeding and other symptoms. If you use pain medicine, check that it is appropriate for you and follow the package instructions. Do not use symptom relief to postpone care when the pain is intense or changing.

Get urgent help for severe or rapidly increasing pain, fainting, fever, persistent vomiting, heavy bleeding or pain when pregnancy is possible. Book an appointment when cramps recur in a disruptive way, continue outside the usual mid-cycle period, begin after a change in contraception or occur with unusual discharge, pain during sex or bowel symptoms.

How can we distinguish ovulation cramps from another pelvic cause? Should I track a particular cycle pattern? Do my symptoms suggest checking for endometriosis, a cyst or pregnancy? What medicines are safe with my health conditions?