Lower Abdominal Pain: Common Causes and What You Need to Know

Lower abdominal pain can be caused by a variety of factors, and understanding the underlying cause often depends on gender, changes in bowel habits or stool consistency, and lifestyle or dietary patterns. Here are some of the most common reasons for lower abdominal discomfort:

1. Gastrointestinal Conditions

Issues within the digestive tract, such as tumors in the rectum or sigmoid colon, can lead to persistent pain and a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen. These symptoms are often accompanied by noticeable changes in bowel movements, including frequency, texture, and overall habits.

2. Gynecological Issues in Women

For women, lower abdominal pain may be linked to reproductive system disorders. Conditions affecting the uterus or ovaries—such as cervical tumors or ovarian masses—can cause discomfort along with menstrual irregularities like abnormal bleeding or unexplained changes in menstrual flow. In some cases, a physical exam might reveal a mass in the pelvic area.

3. Appendicitis

Pain localized to the lower right side of the abdomen is a classic sign of appendicitis. This type of pain typically comes and goes at first but can become constant and severe, especially when accompanied by fever, nausea, or vomiting.

4. Functional Digestive Disorders

Chronic issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other functional gastrointestinal disorders can result in bloating, gas buildup, and recurrent abdominal pain. Symptoms often include irregular bowel movements, loose stools, excessive flatulence, and a general sense of digestive discomfort.

If you experience persistent or severe lower abdominal pain, it's important to consult a healthcare professional to rule out serious conditions and begin appropriate treatment.