Ovulation pain

Overview

German for "middle pain," mittelschmerz occurs about 14 days before the next menstrual period.

Symptoms

Symptoms can include dull, cramplike, or sharp and sudden pain. Mittelschmerz usually lasts a few minutes to a few hours, but it may continue for as long as a day or two.

Treatments

Pain relievers can ease discomfort. Birth control pills also can help by preventing ovulation.