Lower abdominal pain can stem from various causes, from benign issues like constipation to serious conditions such as appendicitis or ectopic pregnancy. Recognizing symptoms early and consulting healthcare professionals ensures accurate diagnosis and timely treatment, preventing complications.

Most Common Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain

Lower abdominal discomfort is a common issue affecting both men and women, with symptoms varying in severity and duration. Determining the exact cause can be difficult without professional help. If you experience persistent or severe pain, it’s crucial to see a healthcare expert for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

The following are frequent causes of lower belly pain:

Constipation: Difficulty in passing stool often leads to bloating and cramps, typically felt on the lower right side of the abdomen.

Appendicitis: Usually affects those aged 11 to 40, presenting with sharp pain in the lower right abdomen, along with fever, nausea, and loss of appetite.

Hernia: Weakness in the abdominal muscles causes a bulge and pain in the lower right side, sometimes radiating to the groin and upper thigh.

Testicular Torsion: Twisting of the testicle leads to severe pain radiating to the lower abdomen, often with nausea and swelling.

Pain may start intermittently but can become constant if untreated. Discomfort can extend below the navel.

Kidney Stones: Intense, radiating pain usually in the back, caused by mineral buildup from dehydration, diet, or high protein intake.

Food Poisoning: Consuming contaminated food results in significant stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, lasting up to two days.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Causes irregular muscle spasms in the intestines, leading to pain, urgency, and stool changes including diarrhea, constipation, or mucus in stool.

Crohn’s Disease: An inflammatory condition causing abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and swelling on the lower right abdomen, with symptoms varying from mild to severe.

Diverticulitis: Infection and inflammation of colonic pouches (diverticula) can cause pain and possible complications.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A serious complication of type 1 diabetes presenting with extreme thirst, shortness of breath, nausea, and severe abdominal pain.

Cystitis: Bacterial bladder infection causing pain during urination, lower abdominal discomfort, and frequent or bloody urination.

Ectopic Pregnancy: Pregnancy outside the uterus, often in the fallopian tube, causes severe pain and risk of rupture.

Placental Abruption: Detachment of the placenta during pregnancy, leading to intense pain and potential risks for mother and baby.

Miscarriage: Loss of pregnancy before 20 weeks associated with cramping, vaginal bleeding, and tissue passage.

Salpingitis: Fallopian tube inflammation resulting in significant pelvic pain in women.

Cancer: Tumors in the lower abdomen may cause mild to severe discomfort.

Cholecystitis: Gallbladder inflammation causing pain beneath the right rib that can radiate to the lower abdomen.

Intestinal Obstruction: Blockages in the intestines cause severe cramps and pain, stopping normal digestion.

Many of these conditions are benign and resolve on their own, but some require urgent medical care. If pain persists or worsens, seek immediate medical attention for proper evaluation and treatment.