Mittelschmerz is pain in the lower abdomen that some women have at the time of ovulation. The pain usually occurs on one side of the abdomen and lasts only a few minutes or hours, although it may sometimes continue for a day or two.
Occasionally, there may also be slight vaginal bleeding.
Symptoms can usually be relieved with over-the-counter pain relievers.
In severe cases, oral contraceptives may be recommended to suppress ovulation and eliminate the pain.