Managing Ovulation Pain: Tips and Tricks.

Ovulation pain, also known as mittelschmerz, affects up to 40% of women of reproductive age, but is often not reported due to its mild nature. The exact cause of the pain is unclear, but it may be related to the expansion of the follicle, the surge in luteinizing hormone, or the release of prostaglandins. Treatment options include over-the-counter pain medication, heat packs, and hormonal birth control to stop ovulation altogether. Severe pain that lasts more than 24 hours may indicate a larger problem and should be evaluated by a doctor.