Lower abdominal pain refers to discomfort in the area below the navel and above the pubic region. This part of the abdomen houses most of the small and large intestines.
As a result, most pain in this region is usually related to the digestive system. However, lower abdominal pain may also be associated with the female reproductive organs and the bladder.
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Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain
If you experience lower abdominal pain, it may originate from organs located in the lower abdominal and pelvic cavity.
1. Appendicitis
Appendicitis is one of the most common causes of lower abdominal pain. However, not all lower abdominal pain is necessarily due to appendicitis.
Pain from appendicitis usually occurs in the lower right abdomen. It may initially start in the middle of the abdomen before intensifying in the lower right side.
Appendicitis does not always require surgery. In some cases, medications can help treat the inflammation.
2. Constipation
Constipation can also cause lower abdominal pain. It occurs when you have difficulty passing stools.
When bowel movements are infrequent, stools remain in the large intestine for a prolonged period. The longer the stool stays, the more fermentation occurs, producing gas.
Gas buildup in the intestines can lead to bloating, discomfort, and lower abdominal pain.
3. Hernia
A hernia occurs when an organ in the abdominal cavity pushes through the muscle or tissue, creating a visible lump.
This condition most commonly occurs in the lower abdomen, especially on the right side. Surgery may be necessary to treat it.
4. Menstrual Cramps
One of the most common causes of lower abdominal pain in women is menstrual cramps. The uterus is located in the lower abdominal cavity.
During menstruation, uterine muscles contract to shed the menstrual blood, causing abdominal pain.
In addition to menstrual cramps, women may experience similar pain due to ovulation cramps.
5. Ectopic Pregnancy
Lower abdominal pain in women who are not menstruating could be due to an ectopic pregnancy. This occurs when a fertilized egg develops outside the uterus, such as in the fallopian tube.
Besides pain, symptoms may include pelvic discomfort, nausea, dizziness, vaginal bleeding, or a missed period.
6. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases are among the causes of lower abdominal pain. Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are two common examples.
These conditions cause inflammation in the intestines, leading to lower abdominal pain.
7. Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are another cause of lower abdominal pain. They form due to the accumulation of minerals in the kidneys.
Small stones may pass through urine without issues. However, larger stones can become lodged, causing pain in the lower back, waist, groin, and lower abdomen.
8. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
A UTI is caused by bacteria that initially infect the urethra. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other urinary tract areas, including the bladder, ureters, and kidneys.
A key symptom of a UTI is lower abdominal pain. Other symptoms include a burning sensation when urinating.
9. Tumors
In rare cases, lower abdominal pain may result from a tumor. The tumor may grow large enough to obstruct the intestines or be malignant, causing cancer.
Cancers that may cause lower abdominal pain include colon cancer, small intestine cancer, and ovarian cancer.
How to Treat Lower Abdominal Pain
Treatment depends on the underlying issue. For pain caused by menstrual cramps, symptoms usually subside on the second or third day of menstruation. However, an ectopic pregnancy requires immediate medical attention.
It is essential to consult a doctor to determine the exact cause and receive the appropriate treatment. If your abdominal pain is accompanied by unusual vaginal bleeding, you should see an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN).
For lower abdominal pain without vaginal bleeding, consulting an internal medicine specialist or a gastroenterology consultant is advisable. The doctor will perform an examination and may refer you to the appropriate specialist if necessary.
You can visit the Digestive and Liver Center at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri for a consultation with a top internal medicine specialist. Contact us via WhatsApp chat, book an appointment, or download the Care Dokter app on Google Play and the App Store.
