Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain in Men

Lower abdominal pain in men can arise from various factors, and unlike women who have reproductive organs such as the uterus and ovaries in that region, men's lower abdomen contains the bladder, prostate, and intestines. If conditions like colitis have been ruled out through colonoscopy, the most common causes of pain are typically linked to the bladder or prostate.

Bladder inflammation (cystitis) is a frequent cause of lower abdominal discomfort in men. This type of pain usually occurs during urination and is localized in the lower part of the abdomen. When the bladder is inflamed, it can lead to sensations of pressure or pain, especially when it's full, but often feels normal when empty.

Prostatitis, or inflammation of the prostate, is another major contributor to lower abdominal pain in men. This condition can be triggered by prolonged sitting, cycling, or lack of sleep—activities that stimulate increased production of prostatic fluid. As this fluid accumulates, it can put pressure on the prostate ducts and surrounding tissues, leading to irritation and pain.

The proximity of the prostate to the bladder means that inflammation can cause bladder-related symptoms such as lower abdominal pain, frequent urination, and urgency. Additionally, since the urethra runs through the prostate, inflammation can also affect urinary flow, resulting in symptoms like split urine stream or dribbling after urination.

Understanding these potential causes can help men identify when they should seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.