The German word middle pain means “middle pain”. It refers to the lower abdominal pain that some women experience during ovulation, during which an egg is released from their ovaries. Mid-perimenstrual pain is not a serious condition, but it can be uncomfortable and interfere with daily activities. It usually occurs about 14 days before the next menstrual period, and lasts from a few minutes to a few hours. We will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mittelschmerz in this blog post.
Several factors may contribute to mittelschmerz, but the exact cause is unknown:
As the egg matures and breaks through the follicle, the ovarian surface or fallopian tube stretches
A ruptured follicle releases blood or fluid that irritates the abdominal lining (peritoneum)
An egg is moved towards the uterus by contraction of the uterus or fallopian tube
The pain may switch sides from month to month depending on which ovary is ovulating, or it may remain on one side for several months.
Mittelschmerz is characterized by a sharp, cramp-like pain in the lower abdomen, usually on one side.
Bleeding or spotting in the vaginal area
Discharge from the vaginal canal
Vomiting or nausea
Dizziness or headache
Chills or fever
It is possible for women to experience mild or no pain, while others may experience severe pain that requires medication or medical care. Pain severity and duration can vary from person to person and from cycle to cycle. Stress, physical activity, sexual activity, or certain foods and drinks can also trigger or worsen the pain.
The diagnosis of middle pain is usually based on a patient's history and physical examination. The doctor will also inquire about the menstrual cycle, the nature and timing of the pain, as well as any other symptoms. For signs of infection, inflammation, or other problems that could cause similar pain, the doctor may also perform a pelvic exam.
Tests may be ordered to rule out other causes of lower abdominal pain, such as appendicitis, ectopic pregnancy, ovarian cysts, or pelvic inflammatory disease:
Pregnancy tests, infection tests, and hormone tests
Checking for kidney stones or urinary tract infections with urine tests
Using ultrasound to visualize the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes
Through a small incision and a camera, a laparoscopy examines the pelvic organs and peritoneum
Usually, middle pain resolves on its own without any complications, but the following measures may help relieve pain and discomfort:
Acetaminophen, naproxen, or ibuprofen are over-the-counter pain relievers
The lower abdomen or the back can be heated with a heating pad or a hot water bottle
Bathing or showering in warm water
Relaxing and resting
Maintaining a healthy weight by drinking plenty of fluids
Caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, and spicy foods should be avoided
It may be necessary to prescribe stronger painkillers or antibiotics if the pain persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, nausea, vomiting, or abnormal bleeding. To prevent mittelschmerz, the doctor may also recommend birth control pills or other hormonal methods.
In spite of the fact that mittelschmerz is a natural part of the menstrual cycle, there are certain steps that may reduce the risk or severity of the pain.
Recording the menstrual cycle and ovulation pain to identify the pattern and triggers
Preparing painkillers and heating pads ahead of time
Preventing infections of the pelvic organs by practicing good hygiene and using condoms
Supporting hormonal balance and reproductive health by eating a balanced diet and taking supplements, such as vitamin B6, magnesium, or omega-3 fatty acids
Regular and moderate exercise improves blood circulation and muscle tone
Reducing tension and inflammation in the body by managing stress and anxiety
