What Could Be Causing Your Lower Abdominal Pain?

Is lower abdominal pain wearing you down? You are not alone, many women experience this common issue, affecting roughly 24% of the population. 

While some causes are harmless and not worth worrying about, others can signal more serious conditions. That’s why it is always wise to have any abdominal discomfort evaluated by a professional.

A Quick Look Inside The Female Abdomen

The female abdomen houses a diverse array of organs and structures that play vital roles in critical bodily functions, including digestion, reproduction, and elimination. Among these are the small intestine, uterus, ovaries, appendix, bladder, kidneys, and other essential components. Each of these organs contributes to maintaining overall health and ensuring the body’s proper functioning.

The Most Common Causes Of Lower Abdominal Pain

Focusing on gynaecological, gastrointestinal, and urinary factors, here are the most common causes of female lower abdominal pain.

1. Gynaecological Causes

When a woman experiences lower abdominal pain, gynaecological issues are often the primary concern. These causes are directly linked to the reproductive organs and can vary from normal physiological processes to serious medical conditions.

Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea): One of the most common causes of lower abdominal pain in women is menstrual cramps, medically known as dysmenorrhea. This pain occurs before or during menstruation and can vary from mild to severe. It is caused by the uterus contracting to shed its lining, which can lead to cramping pain in the lower abdomen.

Ovulation Pain (Mittelschmerz): Some women experience pain during ovulation, known as Mittelschmerz, which typically occurs midway through the menstrual cycle. This pain is usually mild and lasts for a few hours to a couple of days. It occurs when the ovary releases an egg, causing minor bleeding and irritation in the abdomen.

Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other pelvic organs. It affects about 1.5 million women in the UK. This condition can lead to chronic lower abdominal pain, particularly during menstruation. The pain is often severe and may be accompanied by heavy periods, pain during intercourse, and fertility issues.

Ovarian Cysts: Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop on the ovaries. While many cysts are harmless and resolve on their own, some can cause significant pain if they grow large, rupture, or twist (a condition known as ovarian torsion). This pain is often sharp and sudden, and it may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and changes in menstrual cycles.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs, often caused by sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia or gonorrhoea. It can cause severe lower abdominal pain, fever, abnormal vaginal discharge, and pain during intercourse. Untreated PID can lead to serious complications, including infertility and chronic pelvic pain.

2. Gastrointestinal Causes

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is another frequent source of lower abdominal pain in women. GI issues can lead to discomfort that may be either widespread or localised to specific areas of the abdomen.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS is a chronic condition that affects the large intestine and can cause cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhoea, and constipation. The pain associated with IBS often improves after a bowel movement and can be triggered by certain foods, stress, or hormonal changes. It is estimated that 13 million people in the UK suffer from IBS!

Appendicitis: Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. The pain usually begins near the navel and then moves to the lower right side of the abdomen. It typically presents as a sharp, intensifying pain that worsens with movement. Importantly, appendicitis is a medical emergency requiring prompt surgical removal of the appendix to prevent potentially life-threatening complications.

Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches in the colon, known as diverticula, become inflamed or infected. This can cause sudden and severe lower abdominal pain, usually on the left side, along with fever, nausea, and changes in bowel habits. Mild cases may be treated with antibiotics and dietary changes, while severe cases may require surgery.

Gastroenteritis: Gastroenteritis, often referred to as a stomach bug, is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause diffuse abdominal pain, cramps, diarrhoea, vomiting, and fever. The pain is usually temporary and resolves as the infection clears.

3. Urinary Causes

The urinary system, comprising the kidneys, bladder, and urethra, can also contribute to lower abdominal pain in women.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A UTI is a super common infection that affects the bladder and urethra. It can cause pain or a burning sensation during urination, frequent urges to urinate, and lower abdominal pain. If the infection spreads to the kidneys, it can cause more severe pain, fever, and back pain. UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics.

Kidney Stones: Kidney stones affect about 2 in every 20 women in the UK. These are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys and can travel through the urinary tract. They can cause severe pain in the lower abdomen, back, and sides, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and blood in the urine. While small stones may pass on their own, larger stones may require medical intervention to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.

4. Other Causes

Beyond the more common causes, other factors can contribute to lower abdominal pain in women.

Hernia: A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, causing a bulge and pain in the lower abdomen. The pain is often worsened by straining, lifting, or prolonged standing. Hernias usually require surgical repair.

Ectopic Pregnancy: An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. This can cause sharp, stabbing lower abdominal pain, often on one side, along with vaginal bleeding. An ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to prevent life-threatening complications.

Summary And Reflection

Lower abdominal pain in women can stem from a broad range of causes, each demanding specific diagnostic and treatment approaches. Whether the pain is linked to the reproductive system, gastrointestinal tract, urinary system, or other factors, pinpointing the underlying cause is crucial for effective management. If you experience persistent or severe lower abdominal pain, please seek medical attention to receive appropriate care.