Mittelschmerz

Mittelschmerz is a medical term that refers to pelvic and lower abdominal pain that some women experience during ovulation, which typically occurs in the middle of their menstrual cycle. The term "Mittelschmerz" is derived from the German words for "middle" and "pain".

Symptoms

The primary symptom of Mittelschmerz is lower abdominal pain on one side. This pain can be dull, sharp, or cramping, and it may be mild or severe. The pain typically lasts a few hours to a few days, and it may switch sides from one cycle to the next or from one hour to the next. Some women may also experience minor vaginal bleeding or discharge.

Causes

Mittelschmerz occurs during ovulation, when the follicle ruptures and releases an egg. The rupture can cause a small amount of blood and fluid to be released into the abdominal cavity, which can cause irritation and pain.

Diagnosis

Mittelschmerz is typically diagnosed based on the timing of the pain and the absence of other symptoms. A pelvic exam, ultrasound, or laparoscopy may be used to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as appendicitis or ectopic pregnancy.

Treatment

Treatment for Mittelschmerz is typically not necessary, as the pain is usually mild and goes away on its own. However, over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to manage the pain. In some cases, hormonal contraceptives may be recommended to prevent ovulation and reduce the occurrence of Mittelschmerz.

See also

• Menstrual cycle
• Ovulation
• Pelvic pain

Mittelschmerz Resources
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References

External links

• Mittelschmerz at Mayo Clinic
• Mittelschmerz at WebMD