What Causes Lower Abdominal Pain in 15-Year-Old Girls

Lower abdominal pain in a 15-year-old girl can stem from a variety of potential causes, and accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment. One of the first steps is to perform blood and urine tests for HCG to rule out pregnancy-related complications such as ectopic pregnancy, which can be life-threatening if not detected early.

Once an ectopic pregnancy has been ruled out, an ultrasound should be conducted to check for gynecological issues like ovarian cyst torsion or rupture. These conditions are relatively common among adolescent girls and often present with sudden, severe lower abdominal pain. Symptoms may also include nausea and vomiting.

During a physical examination, tenderness and sometimes rebound tenderness in the lower abdomen may be observed. An ultrasound can reveal specific signs of ovarian cyst complications, and in most cases, emergency surgical intervention is required to treat torsion or rupture.

It's also important to consult a surgeon to exclude other possible causes of abdominal pain, such as appendicitis, intestinal cramps, or urinary tract stones. Intestinal cramps, for instance, are usually characterized by temporary, spasmodic pain that improves after bowel movements or passing gas. This type of pain is quite common and typically does not require invasive treatment.

In summary, when a teenage girl experiences lower abdominal pain, it's crucial to consider both gynecological and non-gynecological causes. A thorough medical evaluation including lab tests and imaging studies is necessary to determine the exact cause and guide proper management. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and prevent serious complications.