How to Diagnose Mittelschmerz

Mittleschmertz, or 'middle pain' is a common condition experienced by women. The pain can sometimes be scary and confused with other types of pains such as the pain from appendicitis. As always, consult a doctor if you are unsure of the source of your pain.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Calendar

1. Determine when your pain is occurring. Mittleschmertz is a pain that occurs during ovulation. One way to determine if your pain is caused by Mittleschmertz is to look at your menstruation cycle. Ovulation usually occurs approximately 2 weeks before menstruation begins. If you have had this pain before and around the same time, it could be Mittleschmertz.
2. Find out where your pain is located. Since you ovulate on a different side each month, take note of where you feel the pain from month to month. You may not feel the Mittleschmertz on both sides so try and notice if you skip a month in between pains.
3. Take note of how long the pain lasts. Mittleschmertz pain does not usually last a long time. If you pain lasts for more than a day or two, it may not be Mittleschmertz.
4. Gauge the severity of your pain. Mittleschmertz pain is not usually excruciating. If you have excrutiating pain, go to the emergency room as soon as possible.
5. Think about what the pain feels like Does your pain feel similar to a menstrual cramp? Mittleschmertz often presents as a cramping pain. If the pain is stabbing, pinching, or more intense it could be something else.

Tips & Warnings

• See your doctor if you are not sure of the source of your pain. The appendix and gall bladder are located in a close proximity to the ovaries and they should be ruled out at least the first time you experience pain in the area.