From the Research
Mittelschmerz, or ovulation pain, can be effectively managed with over-the-counter pain medications, and according to the most recent and highest quality study, ibuprofen is consistently superior to paracetamol in providing pain relief 1.
Definition and Causes
Mittelschmerz is abdominal pain that occurs during ovulation, typically mid-way through a woman's menstrual cycle. This pain happens when an egg is released from the ovary and can range from mild discomfort to sharp, intense pain that lasts from a few hours to a couple of days.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The symptoms of mittelschmerz can vary, but common symptoms include:
- Lower abdominal pain on one side
- Mild to severe pain
- Pain that lasts from a few hours to a couple of days
- Pain that may be accompanied by light bleeding or spotting
Treatment and Management
For relief, over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen (200-400mg every 4-6 hours) are usually effective, as they have been shown to be superior to paracetamol in a range of painful conditions, including dysmenorrhoea 1. A heating pad applied to the lower abdomen can also help ease discomfort. If the pain is recurrent and bothersome, hormonal birth control methods may be recommended as they prevent ovulation 2.
Complications and Risks
While mittelschmerz is typically harmless, if pain becomes severe, lasts longer than three days, or is accompanied by fever or unusual vaginal discharge, medical attention should be sought to rule out other conditions like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or appendicitis. Some key points to consider when managing mittelschmerz include:
- The use of ibuprofen as a first-line analgesic, due to its superior efficacy compared to paracetamol 1
- The potential benefits of hormonal birth control methods in preventing ovulation and reducing mittelschmerz pain 2
- The importance of seeking medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen over time.