It's possible to feel your egg being released during ovulation, often experienced as a pain called Mittelschmerz.
Mittelschmerz, which translates to "middle pain" in German, is the term used to describe one-sided, lower abdominal pain associated with ovulation. Here's a breakdown of what you might experience:
- What it feels like: The pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp, twinge-like sensation.
- When it occurs: It typically happens mid-cycle, around the time of ovulation.
- Location: Many individuals experience the pain on the same side as the ovary releasing the egg. So, if your right ovary is releasing the egg, you may feel pain on your right side. However, some people report pain every month regardless of which ovary is releasing the egg.
- Duration: Mittelschmerz can last for a few minutes to a couple of days.
- Other Symptoms: Some individuals may experience slight spotting or discharge along with the pain.
Important Considerations:
- Not everyone experiences Mittelschmerz. It's estimated that only about 20% of women notice it.
- If you experience severe or persistent pain, or if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, nausea, or vomiting, consult a doctor to rule out other potential causes. This could be indicative of conditions like appendicitis, ectopic pregnancy, or ovarian cysts.
- Tracking your menstrual cycle can help you identify if the pain you are experiencing is indeed related to ovulation.
In summary, while not everyone feels it, it is possible to feel the release of an egg, which is often referred to as Mittelschmerz. This can manifest as pain on one side of your lower abdomen, typically around mid-cycle.
