Question: What causes lower abdominal pain in females?
Answer: Lower abdominal pain in females can be a complex and often concerning symptom, as it can arise from a wide range of underlying causes.
| Cause of lower abdominal pain | Description |
| Menstrual Cramps | Menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea occur during menstruation when the uterus contracts to expel its lining This lead to lower abdominal pain that can range from mild to severe and might be accompanied by lower back pain and discomfort in the pelvic region. |
| Uterine Cancer
|
Cancer of the uterus may be the cause of pain in the lower abdomen in female, leading to abnormal bleeding and pelvic discomfort. |
| Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) |
Urinary tract infections caused by bacteria can cause lower abdominal pain, burning sensation during urination and frequent urges to urinate. |
| Gynecological Conditions
|
Certain gynecological conditions can be the cause of lower abdominal pain in females such as:
· Endometriosis in which tissue resembling the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing lower abdominal pain, especially during periods. · Uterine Fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus that can lead to heavy periods and pelvic pressure and pain. · Fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries known as ovarian Cysts might cause abdominal pain if they rupture or twist. |
| Hernia | Hernia is the protrusion of an organ through a weak point in the abdominal wall, causing pain, discomfort and bulging in the affected area. |
| Ovarian Cancer | Rarely, ovarian cancer can leads to persistent abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. |
| Gastrointestinal Issues | · A chronic digestive disorder or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can cause abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhea.
· Infection of the digestive tract such as gastroenteritis can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. |
| Appendicitis | Inflammation of the appendix results in sudden severe pain which moves towards the lower abdomen. |
| Interstitial Cystitis |
A chronic condition that leads to frequent, urgent urination, bladder pressure, and pelvic pain. Often mistaken for UTIs. |
| Ovarian Torsion | Twisting of an ovary, cutting off its blood supply, causing sudden and severe lower abdominal pain. Requires immediate medical attention. |
| Pelvic Congestion Syndrome | Swelling of pelvic veins, leading to aching discomfort in the lower abdomen, especially after long periods of standing. |
| Gallstones | Hardened deposits in the gallbladder or bile ducts, causing pain in the upper right abdomen that can radiate to the lower abdomen. |
| Reproductive System Infections | Infections of the cervix, vagina, or vulva can lead to pain, itching, and abnormal discharge, causing lower abdominal discomfort |
| Diverticulitis | Inflammation or infection of small pouches known as diverticula in the colon results in lower abdominal pain, often on the left side. |