What Causes Lower Abdominal Pain in Females?

Lower abdominal pain in females can arise from a variety of causes, ranging from mild and temporary conditions to more serious health concerns. At Physicians Now Urgent Care, we frequently see patients experiencing this type of discomfort, and we understand how important it is to identify the underlying cause quickly and accurately. Common causes of lower abdominal pain in females include:

• Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea): Pain caused by uterine contractions during menstruation.

• Ovarian Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries that may rupture or twist, causing sharp pain.

• Endometriosis: Tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing chronic pelvic pain.

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Infection of the reproductive organs, often caused by sexually transmitted infections.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A gastrointestinal disorder causing cramping, bloating, and discomfort.

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Infections in the urinary system can cause pain in the lower abdomen, often with painful urination.

• Constipation: Difficulty passing stools, leading to bloating and abdominal pain.

• Fibroids: Non-cancerous tumors in the uterus that can cause pelvic pain, especially when they press on surrounding organs.

• Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions like diverticulitis, gas, or food intolerances can lead to lower abdominal pain.

• Urinary Stones: Kidney or bladder stones can cause sharp pain in the lower abdomen, often accompanied by painful urination.

If you experience persistent or severe lower abdominal pain, it’s important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. At Physicians Now Urgent Care, we are here to provide fast, compassionate, and thorough evaluations for women experiencing lower abdominal pain.

Lower abdominal pain can be associated with food intolerance. Food intolerances occur when the digestive system has difficulty breaking down certain foods, leading to discomfort in the abdomen. The most common types of food intolerances include lactose intolerance, gluten sensitivity, and fructose malabsorption. When a person with a food intolerance consumes foods that their body struggles to digest, it can result in symptoms such as bloating, cramping, diarrhea, or sharp abdominal pain.

Lactose intolerance, for example, occurs when the body lacks the enzyme lactase, which is needed to digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. This can lead to painful bloating and gas in the lower abdomen. Similarly, individuals with gluten sensitivity may experience abdominal pain after consuming gluten-containing foods, especially in cases of non-celiac gluten sensitivity, which can cause bloating and discomfort. Fructose malabsorption, which occurs when the body has trouble digesting fructose (found in fruits and certain sweeteners), can also lead to lower abdominal pain and bloating.

If you’re experiencing recurring lower abdominal pain that you suspect may be related to food intolerance, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management. At Physicians Now Urgent Care, our skilled team can help evaluate your symptoms, identify potential food intolerances, and offer advice on dietary adjustments to alleviate discomfort.

Lower abdominal pain is often related to menstruation, especially for women who experience menstrual cramps. This pain, known as dysmenorrhea, typically occurs just before or during a woman’s period and is caused by the contraction of the uterine muscles as they work to shed the uterine lining. The pain can range from mild to severe and is often accompanied by symptoms such as bloating, fatigue, and lower back pain. In many cases, the pain may be localized in the lower abdomen but can radiate to the thighs or lower back.

While menstrual cramps are common, they can sometimes be more intense and cause significant discomfort. Some women may experience conditions like endometriosis or fibroids, which can intensify menstrual pain and lead to chronic discomfort throughout the menstrual cycle. These conditions can cause more severe abdominal pain, and it’s important to differentiate between normal menstrual discomfort and pain that may indicate a more serious underlying issue.

If you’re experiencing lower abdominal pain related to menstruation and it interferes with your daily activities, it’s important to seek medical evaluation. At Physicians Now Urgent Care, our team can help you determine whether your pain is a normal part of your cycle or if further treatment is needed. We provide compassionate, efficient care to address your symptoms and ensure your comfort.

Lower abdominal pain is a common concern that brings many patients to Physicians Now Urgent Care. This discomfort can have a variety of causes, including digestive issues, menstrual cramps, urinary tract infections, or even muscle strain. While some cases may require medical evaluation, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to help prevent and manage mild lower abdominal pain at home.

Healthy Habits for Prevention and Relief:

• Eat a Balanced Diet: Consuming plenty of fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can promote healthy digestion and help prevent constipation—a frequent cause of lower abdominal discomfort.

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water not only aids in digestion but also lowers your risk of developing urinary tract infections.

• Stay Active: Regular exercise, such as walking or gentle stretching, encourages normal digestion and reduces bloating.

• Manage Stress: Emotional stress can sometimes contribute to abdominal pain. Consider relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to reduce tension.

• Maintain Regular Eating Habits: Skipping meals can upset your digestive system. Try to eat at consistent times each day.

• Ease Menstrual Cramps: If your pain is related to your menstrual cycle, applying a heating pad and getting adequate rest can help. Reducing processed foods, caffeine, and carbonated beverages may also provide relief.

• Practice Good Bathroom Habits: Don’t delay urination, as this can increase your risk of urinary tract discomfort.

At Physicians Now Urgent Care, we’re committed to your health and comfort. While these lifestyle tips can help with minor or occasional discomfort, persistent or severe lower abdominal pain may signal a more serious condition.

If you’re experiencing lower abdominal pain, consulting Dr. Chinedum Olisemeka, DO, at Physicians Now Urgent Care in Rockville, MD, ensures you receive comprehensive care from a skilled and compassionate healthcare provider. With years of experience and a patient-centered approach, Dr. Olisemeka specializes in diagnosing and treating various causes of abdominal pain in females, offering quick and effective solutions tailored to your needs.

• Expert Diagnosis: Dr. Olisemeka uses advanced diagnostic tools to identify the underlying cause of your abdominal pain, whether it’s related to gastrointestinal issues, gynecological conditions, or other concerns.

• Comprehensive Care: Dr. Olisemeka provides a thorough evaluation, considering all potential causes, and creates personalized treatment plans to address your specific symptoms and needs.

• Efficient Treatment: At Physicians Now Urgent Care, you’ll receive prompt, effective care for relief, helping you avoid unnecessary delays in your health management.

• Holistic Approach: Dr. Olisemeka’s compassionate approach to patient care ensures that you’re not just treated for your symptoms but also provided with the necessary support and information to manage your condition.

• Convenient Access: With walk-in availability and flexible hours, you can receive the care you need quickly without the hassle of scheduling long-term appointments.

Contact us today for more information. Our urgent care is conveniently located at 15215 Shady Grove Rd., Suite 100, Rockville, MD 20850. We serve patients from Rockville MD, Travilah MD, Lone Oak MD, Colesville Park MD, Redland MD, Darnestown MD, Anscroft MD, and Wheaton-Glenmont MD.