What Causes Lower Abdominal Pain in Females?
Cramping or lower abdominal pain is not uncommon in women. When you reach puberty and menstruation begins, you are likely to have dull or sharp pain in the lower abdomen — the area between your belly button and groin. It’s also referred to as pelvic pain. Lower abdominal pain in women can indicate many issues.
Some are normal and just a part of your menstrual and ovulation cycle. There’s a possibility that pelvic can be due to a serious underlying condition, especially if it’s persistent and is accompanied by other unusual symptoms. It’s best to see a gynecologist in Navi Mumbai to rule out any life-threatening condition. Let’s check out some common causes of pelvic or lower abdominal pain in females.
Menstrual Cramps
Menstruation is the most common cause of pelvic pain in women. It may feel like sharp pain in your upper and lower abdomen and can even spread to the lower back in some cases. The pain is manageable with over-the-counter painkillers and a hot water pad. Menstrual cramps begin before your period starts, as your uterus starts contracting. It can last 2-3 days.
Ovulation Pain
The German word ‘mittelschmerz’ is used to define painful ovulation. In the middle of your menstrual cycle, your ovary releases an egg and fluid. The egg goes down your fallopian tubes into the uterus. The fluid can sometimes enter your abdomen, which may cause irritation and pain. Ovulation pain is temporary and occurs on one side of the pelvis.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Lower abdominal pain with painful urination can indicate UTI. Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria from the vagina, skin, or rectal area travel up the urethra into the bladder and occasionally reach the kidneys. UTI can occur in any part of the women’s urinary tract.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Lower abdominal pain could simply be the wind trapped in your abdomen or a sign of constipation. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can also cause pelvic pain. If the pain persists and is accompanied by constipation, diarrhea, and other symptoms, it’s advisable to discuss abdominal pain treatment in Navi Mumbai with a certified physician.
Reproductive Health Concerns
Pelvic pain can indicate reproductive health concerns in women. Examples include endometriosis — a condition in which the tissue similar to your uterine lining grows outside the uterus and shed during your period. This can cause excessive bleeding with chronic pelvic pain.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is an infection in the reproductive organs from an untreated sexually transmitted disease. Lower abdominal pain with fever and unusual vaginal discharge are the common symptoms of PID.
Both medical issues can affect your fertility.
When to See a Doctor
- Sharp pain in the lower right abdomen that gets worse over time. It can indicate appendicitis, which can be a medical emergency.
- Persistent pain with fever, chills, and heavy bleeding.
- You suspect an infection that could be causing the pain.
Pelvic pain isn’t always severe or requires a visit to a gynecologist. However, if you notice the above symptoms, seek immediate medical care.