Endometriosis and pain during ovulation

One of the most commonly reported symptoms of endometriosis is pain. While it's most severe during menstruation, it can also occur during other phases of the cycle, including ovulation. Many women experience some discomfort during this time, but in the case of endometriosis, this discomfort can be significantly more severe. In this article, I'll try to explain the pain associated with ovulation.

Is pain during ovulation normal?

Ovulation, commonly known as ovulation, is a physiological process that involves the release of a mature egg from the ovary. It's considered the culminating point of the entire menstrual cycle, as this is when the chances of fertilization are highest. Ovulation occurs approximately halfway through the menstrual cycle. In the case of "textbook" 28-day cycles, egg release occurs on day 14. Of course, this can vary slightly for each woman. If your cycles are longer, shorter, or irregular, day 14 isn't a perfect indicator.

The occurrence of ovulation can be initially assessed based on changes occurring in the body. Symptoms of ovulation include changes in the cervical mucus, which becomes clearer, more stretchy, and resembles egg white. There is also a slight increase in body temperature, approximately 0,5 degrees Celsius. Many women also report an increase in libido during this time.

Ovulation can also cause lower abdominal discomfort, and in some cases, pain. Ovulation pain is directly related to the rupture of the Graafian follicle in the ovary. It is most often felt on one side, in the lower abdomen. It generally lasts briefly, a few or several minutes, does not negatively impact daily functioning, resolves spontaneously, and requires no further action. However, in some women, ovulation pain can persist for up to two days and can be very bothersome. While mild discomfort during ovulation is not cause for concern, pain should always be consulted with a doctor.

Pain during ovulation as a symptom of endometriosis

Women with endometriosis may experience more pain during ovulation. This is due, in part, to hormonal changes and fluctuating progesterone and estrogen levels, which can impact endometrial lesions, inflammation, and, consequently, pain. Furthermore, the chronic inflammation associated with endometriosis can damage nerve endings and make them more sensitive. Therefore, ovulation pain can be more noticeable. 

Remember that the menstrual cycle is associated with very dynamic changes that we women experience every month. However, pain is never normal. Whether you've been diagnosed with endometriosis or are currently undergoing treatment , don't be misled by claims that "it's just your beauty," that "it will go away after pregnancy ," or that "it has to hurt sometimes."

What can you do if you experience ovulation pain due to endometriosis? The key is to treat the underlying condition through dietary and lifestyle changes, supplementation, and, if you choose to, pharmacotherapy. Ovulation pain is a symptom of the disease, so treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and slowing the progression of the disease. We've written about how you can cope with endometriosis in the following articles, which I encourage you to read:

• "Herbs for endometriosis – recommended species, properties and uses"
• "N-acetylcysteine ​​(NAC) – supportive action in endometriosis"
• Endometriosis Drug – Current Information 2025 
• What medications should I take for endometriosis?  
• Biohacking as a lifestyle for endometriosis 

Summary

Ovulation can be associated with brief, mild discomfort in the lower abdomen, but pain should never be ignored. If you experience ovulation pain regularly, consult your doctor, whether you have endometriosis or are just trying to figure out the cause of your symptoms. 

Źródła:

1. Ovulation pain, https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/ovulation-pain/ [accessed: 17/09/2025]
2. Endometriosis Pain During Ovulation: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment, https://www.nawcare.com/blog/endometriosis-pain-during-ovulation [accessed: 17/09/2025]
3. Maddern J. Pain in Endometriosis, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7573391/ [accessed: 17/09/2025]