Ovulation Pain: Signs and Symptoms Explained

Ovulation pain

Hello Dr.
Lin! I measured my basal body temperature at 36.15°C on April 21 and used an ovulation test strip showing T=C.
Today, April 22, I experienced dull pain in my lower abdomen in the afternoon, and my basal body temperature is 36.80°C with the ovulation test strip showing T>C.
Does this mean I have ovulated? I had intercourse on April 19, April 19, and April 21; should I continue to have intercourse?

Penny, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/22

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Please go to the hospital for an ultrasound examination for a clearer assessment.

Reply Date: 2016/04/22

More Info

Ovulation pain, also known as mittelschmerz, is a common phenomenon experienced by many women during their menstrual cycle. It typically occurs around the time of ovulation, which is when an ovary releases an egg. Understanding the signs and symptoms of ovulation pain can help you better interpret your body’s signals and optimize your chances of conception if that is your goal.

From your description, it appears that you are closely monitoring your basal body temperature (BBT) and using ovulation test strips. The rise in BBT from 36.15°C to 36.80°C indicates a possible ovulation event, as BBT typically increases after ovulation due to the hormone progesterone. The ovulation test strips showing a positive result (T>C) further supports this, as they detect the surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) that precedes ovulation.

The dull pain you are experiencing in your lower abdomen is a classic sign of ovulation. This discomfort can vary in intensity and duration, lasting from a few minutes to several hours or even a couple of days. It is usually localized to one side of the abdomen, corresponding to the ovary that is releasing the egg. Some women may also experience other symptoms during ovulation, such as increased cervical mucus, breast tenderness, or mild cramping.

Given that you have already engaged in sexual intercourse on the days leading up to and including the day of ovulation, you have optimized your chances for conception. Sperm can live in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so having intercourse in the days leading up to ovulation can increase the likelihood of sperm being present when the egg is released.

If you are trying to conceive, it is generally advisable to continue having intercourse in the days surrounding ovulation. Since you have already detected signs of ovulation, you may want to continue for a day or two after the pain subsides, as the egg is viable for about 12 to 24 hours after ovulation.
In summary, based on your observations of basal body temperature and the positive ovulation test, it is likely that you have ovulated. The lower abdominal pain you are experiencing is consistent with ovulation pain. If you are trying to conceive, continuing to have intercourse in the days following ovulation can be beneficial.
If you have any concerns about the pain or if it becomes severe or persistent, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They can rule out other potential causes of abdominal pain and provide further guidance tailored to your specific situation. Additionally, if you have any irregularities in your menstrual cycle or experience significant discomfort, a visit to a gynecologist may be warranted to ensure everything is functioning normally.
Understanding your body’s signals during this time can empower you in your reproductive health journey. Good luck!

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