Mittelschmerz occurs roughly at what time in the cycle?

• A. During menses
• B. During pregnancy
• C. Mid-cycle (ovulation)
• D. After menses

Answer: (C)

Mittelschmerz is mid-cycle pelvic pain that occurs around the time of ovulation. Ovulation typically happens roughly halfway through the menstrual cycle (often around day 12–16 in a 28-day cycle), so the discomfort appears in the middle of the cycle. The pain results from the rupture of the mature follicle and the release of the egg, sometimes with minor irritation from follicular fluid or blood in the peritoneal cavity. It is usually felt on one side and lasts for a few hours up to a day or two. This timing distinguishes it from menstrual cramps, which occur at the start of the cycle, and from issues related to pregnancy or the post-menses period. Mittelschmerz is generally benign, and the onset and duration can vary between individuals and across cycles.