Periodic pain in the lower abdomen in women. Causes of pain in the lower abdomen in women (left, right), treatment of pathology. When not to put off going to the doctor

Pain in the lower abdomen is a very common symptom and can have many causes, since the stomach is considered one of the most vulnerable parts of the human body. However, the causes of pain in the lower abdomen in men and women can be completely different. If you are being tormented severe pain, especially acute ones, you must immediately call an ambulance or see a doctor yourself as soon as possible.

Pain in the lower abdomen in women is perhaps one of the most common reasons for visiting a gynecologist, but it may also indicate pathologies not associated with diseases of the genital organs, and may, for example, have a neurological origin.

1 Causes of pain

Conventionally, the causes of pain in the lower abdomen can be divided into organic and functional.

The organic ones are:

• diseases of the gynecological type, for example, adnexitis;
• the presence of an intrauterine device;
• pathologies of the surgical type;
• pathologies associated with urination or gallbladder, these include cystitis, appendicitis, and pyelonephritis;
• problems associated with pregnancy, for example, premature detachment of the placenta, ectopic pregnancy.

Among the functional ones are the following:

• disturbed menstrual cycle and uterine bleeding;
• pain during ovulation;
• stasis of menstrual blood.

Doctors divide pain in the lower abdomen in women into two types depending on their nature, but this classification is conditional, since it does not take into account many factors.

The first type is a sharp pain in the lower abdomen, which appears from time to time. It indicates an acute pathology, for example, a rupture of an organ or its twisting. In the event of such sensations, immediate surgical intervention is necessary.

The second type is a severe dull pain in the lower abdomen, which gradually increases. This type of pain is constant and pulling, they most likely indicate the presence of an inflammatory process in the body or a disturbed blood supply to some organ.

2 Provoking factors

Occurred in a pregnant woman, may indicate both the onset of premature birth or miscarriage, and premature detachment of the placenta or uterine rupture. Any of these conditions is dangerous for a woman's health, especially when acute pains below intensify and are accompanied by spotting. The pregnant woman needs immediate hospitalization. Even if the pain in the lower abdomen is not very strong, it is necessary to call ambulance, because it can be dangerous for the health of the child being born.

But what can hurt if a woman is not pregnant? We will provide a list of the most common answers to the question of why a woman's lower abdomen hurts. The reasons may be the following:

1. Menstruation. First, unpleasant sensations appear in the side, and a little later, sharp pains begin in the lower abdomen in the middle - often this is evidence that menstruation will soon come. Such painful sensations can last for several days, they intensify while walking, accompanied by general lethargy of the body. In this case, any pain reliever can help. Sometimes acute pain in the lower abdomen is due to the presence of diseases.
2. Diseases associated with the menstrual cycle are dysmenorrhea and endometriosis, in both cases there are dull or sharp pains lower abdomen. Symptoms of the first are nausea, headaches, constipation or diarrhea, usually they pass within a day, but sometimes last longer. Symptoms of endometriosis are usually painful sensations during bowel movements and sexual contact.
3. Cystitis. Cutting pain in the lower abdomen in the middle is most often a symptom of acute cystitis. Additional symptoms may be too frequent urination with pain at the end of the process, spotting in the urine. If neither one nor the other is present, then it is possible that the problem may be in the intestines. In any case, if the pain below has already arisen, we strongly advise you to contact a gynecologist, and, if necessary, also a urologist.
4. Adnexitis. may indicate inflammation of the uterine appendages - adnexitis. In most cases, inflammation begins due to childbirth or abortion. First, there is a pulling pain below, as the infection spreads, the pain intensifies and worsens, pelvic inflammation develops, which greatly complicates the woman's condition, so you should immediately contact a specialist.
5. Violation of ectopic pregnancy. If the lumen of the uterine tubes in a woman is already normal, the egg fertilized by the sperm does not reach the uterus, attaches to the tube and gradually destroys it, as a result of which the ectopic pregnancy is violated. Painful sensations, as a rule, occur first on one side, but can spread to all parts of the abdomen in women. They usually get worse with movement or bowel movements. Pain can occur even in the early stages of pregnancy. In case of rupture of the fallopian tube, it has a cutting character and is accompanied by bleeding, which requires immediate surgical treatment.
6. Rupture of the cyst. It starts abruptly and suddenly, and then quickly fades away. Symptoms are nausea, vomiting, vaginal bleeding.
7. Ovulation. Often, women have pain not only before the onset of menstruation, but also two weeks before them, that is, during the ovulatory period. This is due to the rupture of the follicle, as a result of which the follicular fluid irritates the peritoneum. Such painful sensations are mild and may be accompanied by slight spotting, but this phenomenon is considered the norm. If this condition does not go away within 48 hours, you will need to see a doctor.

3 Pain after sex

Severe pain below can disturb women after sexual contact. In some cases, it may occur as a result of a rupture of the ovary or its cyst, in addition, internal bleeding may begin, the symptoms of which are not noticeable, so it is advisable to hospitalize the woman.

In other cases, the causes of pain in the lower abdomen in women are exclusively mechanical, i.e., obtained due to excessive activity or rudeness of the partner. However, if blood appears after sexual intercourse, damage to the cervical mucosa or the vaginal wall may have occurred. In such a situation, you need to contact an ambulance.

4 stress

In women, the causes of which are non-gynecological in nature, is also not uncommon. Pain can occur in stressful situations, with indigestion or an attack of heartburn, with an ulcer or gallstones, as well as from banal hunger or overeating. Remember: when it comes to pain in the abdomen, the reasons for this can be very diverse. It can simply indicate a malaise or be a symptom of a serious illness, so it is better, in case of discomfort, to contact a specialist who can accurately answer why the stomach hurts and prescribe the right treatment.

Update: October 2018

Pain in the lower abdomen in women is the most common reason for visiting a gynecologist. However, such a pain syndrome may be a sign of acute surgical or neurological pathology. If you experience pain, especially acute, unbearable, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Why does the lower abdomen hurt in women on the right, on the left?

The causes of pain in women can be divided into 2 groups: organic and functional.

Organic causes:

• diseases of the organs of the female genital area (adnexitis, endometritis, endometriosis, ovarian apoplexy, ovarian cyst, torsion of the legs of the ovarian cyst, uterine fibroids);
• use of an intrauterine device;
• acute surgical pathology, pathology of the urinary system, gallbladder (appendicitis, cystitis, cholecystitis, pyelonephritis);
• the state of health of a woman associated with pregnancy (threat of miscarriage, premature,).

Functional reasons:

• - algomenorrhea (see) and dysfunctional uterine bleeding;
• pain associated with ovulation (see also);
• stagnation of menstrual blood (bend of the uterus, hematometer).

Pain in the lower abdomen can be of a different nature and can be either sharp, cutting or stabbing, or dull, aching.

Inflammatory processes in the appendages and uterus

The inflammatory process in the uterus or appendages, as a rule, begins acutely, with fever, symptoms of intoxication and pain in the lower abdomen. With salpingoophoritis (adnexitis), the left or right side of the lower abdomen hurts, and with endometritis, the lower abdomen hurts in the middle. During a vaginal examination, pastose and sharply painful appendages are determined, and with endometritis, an enlarged, softened uterus is palpated, painful on palpation and displacement behind the neck. Chronic salpingo-oophoritis and endometritis proceeds with aching, dull pain in the lower abdomen. In the region of the appendages, heaviness is determined, and the uterus is palpated as a dense and sensitive formation.

Treatment for inflammatory diseases of the genital organs consists in the appointment of antibiotics, infusion therapy, vitamins,.

endometriosis

Genital endometriosis can affect the uterus, adnexa, and the retrocervical space. Endometriosis is the spread of cells similar in structure to the endometrium outside the uterus. The pains appear before menstruation and increase during it. With endometriosis of the uterus, pain is localized in the middle of the lower abdomen, with endometriosis of the appendages in the inguinal regions, with retrocervical endometriosis behind the pubis (see). A significant adhesive process in the small pelvis with this disease aggravates the pain syndrome. In addition to pain, a woman is worried about a violation menstrual cycle, change in the nature of menstrual flow and (see).

Treatment of endometriosis is hormonal, in some cases surgery is indicated.

Ovarian apoplexy

Apoplexy or hemorrhage in the ovarian tissue occurs in the intermenstrual period (in the middle of the cycle) and is associated with ovulation. When the main follicle ruptures, the ovarian vessels are damaged and bleeding begins in the tissues of the organ and the abdominal cavity. Sexual intercourse, physical activity can provoke apoplexy. Intra-abdominal bleeding is accompanied by intense pain in the lower abdomen, localized at the site of the affected ovary and symptoms of post-hemorrhagic anemia (pallor of the skin, falling blood pressure, ). An emergency operation is indicated.

uterine fibroids

Pain in the lower abdomen in women with uterine myoma large sizes tumors and compression of neighboring organs and at birth of a submucosal myomatous node. Pain syndrome with large sizes of fibroids is aching, pressing or dull. At the birth of a myomatous node, the pain is cramping, pronounced, and is accompanied by intense bleeding. In both cases, surgery is indicated (see)

Torsion of the peduncle of an ovarian cyst

The leg of an ovarian cyst can twist when tilted, sharp turns, physical work. If the leg is twisted by 90 degrees, the venous outflow in it is disturbed, the cyst swells, and the pains are aching. With a 360-degree twist, arterial blood does not enter the cyst and a picture of an "acute" abdomen develops: cramping, severe pain in the lower abdomen on the side of the cyst, signs of intoxication (nausea, vomiting), positive symptoms of peritoneal irritation, fever, forced position of the patient's body. Emergency treatment - removal of an ovarian cyst, while the leg does not unwind (see).

Appendicitis

Pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy

• Threat of abortion

With the threat of a miscarriage up to 22 weeks, aching or pulling pains in the abdomen occur due to uterine contractions, bleeding may occur. Treatment is aimed at maintaining pregnancy (antispasmodics, hormones, bed rest).

• Premature detachment of a normally located placenta

This pathology is accompanied by significant pain in the abdomen during pregnancy, if the placenta has exfoliated in the lower segment. Possible external bleeding from mild to intense and internal bleeding with a gradual increase in retroplacental hematoma. Shown emergency delivery (caesarean section).

The occurrence of pain in abdominal cavity requires serious attention. If a woman has acute life-threatening symptoms, urgent hospitalization is necessary. The reasons why the lower abdomen can hurt are often associated with the physiological characteristics of the female body. In order to make the correct diagnosis, prescribe treatment, it is necessary to understand the signs that accompany the pain syndrome in various pathologies. This will help to provide timely assistance.

What is lower abdominal pain in women

The appearance of pain in the lower part of the abdominal cavity may be associated with the development of pathological processes. The source of pain is irritation of the nerve endings that are in internal organs and in surrounding tissues. Below, in the pelvic area, are located:

• organs of the female reproductive system;
• part of the large intestine;
• bladder;
• rectum.

When a woman's lower abdomen hurts, the question arises - which doctor should I contact? Acute symptoms require an immediate emergency call. In the case of pain, the help of a surgeon, gastroenterologist, urologist and gynecologist is often required. When contacting the clinic, it is important to correctly describe your feelings. There is such a nature of pain:

• pulsating;
• paroxysmal;
• aching;
• pulling;
• cramping;
• cutting;
• dull;
• acute.

An important role in the description is given to the duration of symptoms in time, the frequency of their occurrence. Pay attention to the fact that the pain can be given to other parts of the body, intensify during movement. Consider the appearance of accompanying signs:

• high temperature;
• secretions from the genitals;
• painful urination;
• pressure drops;
• bleeding;
• weaknesses;
• nausea;
• diarrhea;
• chills
• vomiting.

Causes of pain

When the lower abdomen hurts in women, inflammatory processes in the abdominal organs can be provoking factors. This condition is also caused by intestinal overcrowding, hungry cramps, and oncological pathologies. Pain syndrome is caused by:

• cholelithiasis;
• diverticulosis;
• helminthic invasions;
• intestinal obstruction;
• development of tumors;
• appendicitis;
• intestinal colic;
• poisoning;
• stomach ulcer;
• cholecystitis;
• gastritis;
• peritonitis;
• pancreatitis;
• pinched hernia.

Often, the lower abdomen aches in a woman with pathologies of the reproductive system. Unpleasant symptoms may accompany sexual intercourse, defecation Bladder. Pain is associated with the following reasons:

• taking contraceptives;
• carrying out diagnostic curettage;
• congenital underdevelopment of the genital organs;
• pathology of pregnancy;
• fibromyoma of the uterus;
• inflammation of the appendages;
• HPV (human papillomavirus);
• ectopic pregnancy;
• detachment of the placenta;
• abortion;
• climax.

Among the provoking factors, as a result of which the lower abdominal cavity aches, pathologies of the urinary system: pyelonephritis, cystitis, kidney stones. Painful sensations in women cause:

• metabolic disease;
• long-term use of antibiotics;
• injury to the intervertebral discs;
• viral diseases;
• neoplasms;
• genital infections - trichomoniasis, chlamydia, mycoplasmosis, gonorrhea;
• decreased immunity;
• hypothermia;
• surgical interventions;
• use of drugs, alcohol;
• diabetes;
• obesity;
• thrush;
• stress

Pulling

Pathological changes in the functioning of the pelvic organs cause pulling, aching pain in the lower abdomen in a woman. Doctors identify organic and functional causes of their appearance. The first ones include:

• endometriosis (growth of the inner layer of the uterine wall);
• ovarian cyst;
• uterine fibroids;
• inflammation of the appendages;
• scars after operations;
• colpitis (inflammation of the vaginal mucosa);
• ovarian apoplexy (rupture with hemorrhage);
• genital infections;
• cauterization erosion;
• use of an intrauterine device;
• chronic diseases of the kidneys, bladder.

Pain can accompany the physiological processes taking place in the body of a woman. The functional reasons for their occurrence include:

• bending of the uterus, causing stagnation of menstrual blood;
• ovulation - pulling pain accompanies the process of rupture of the follicle;
• premenstrual syndrome associated with hormonal influence on nervous system;
• underdevelopment of the uterus;
• menstrual disorders;
• uterine bleeding.

Pulling pain in the lower abdomen can occur in a woman throughout the entire period of pregnancy. An unpleasant syndrome develops as a result of pathologies of other organs located in the abdominal cavity. The cause of the painful condition may be:

• stones in the bladder, kidneys, ureters;
• chronic form of appendicitis;
• cystitis, accompanied by burning, pain during urination.

Acute

It is necessary to provide urgent medical care if there is acute severe pain in the lower abdomen in women. This condition indicates serious problems. Gynecologists identify the causes of pain in acute form:

• torsion of the legs of an ovarian cyst;
• endometriosis;
• acute inflammation of the appendages after an abortion or childbirth;
• ovarian apoplexy;
• fall during pregnancy
• early detachment of the placenta;
• fallopian tube rupture, ectopic pregnancy.

The cause of acute pain syndrome in women is the blockage of the ureter with stones during the development of urolithiasis. Pathologies can cause a dangerous condition:

• nonspecific ulcerative colitis;
• Crohn's disease (autoimmune inflammation of the intestine);
• acute form of appendicitis;
• prolonged constipation.

Periodic

In the female body, natural physiological processes occur that follow at regular intervals. Monthly ovulation causes pain during the rupture of the follicle and the release of the egg. The condition may be accompanied by bleeding. The cause of periodic pain symptoms is dysmenorrhea. This is a pathological condition associated with the menstrual cycle. Pain syndrome appears:

• before menstruation (more often in young girls);
• during or after the end of menstruation (mainly in multiparous women).

Lower right abdomen

Dislocation of unpleasant sensations is important in determining the causes of the disease. Gynecological pathologies can be provoking factors for the appearance of pain on the right. These include:

• weakening of the internal os of the uterus early term pregnancy (isthmic-cervical insufficiency);
• apoplexy of the right ovary;
• ectopic pregnancy;
• tumors in the appendages on the right;
• menstrual irregularities;
• torsion of the leg of the right ovary;
• inflammatory processes in the uterus;
• the onset of spontaneous abortion;
• hypertonicity of the uterus, threatening miscarriage during pregnancy.

It hurts on the right in the abdominal cavity, when pathologies of the pelvic organs develop. This condition is provoked by indigestion, helminthic invasions, tumor processes. Pain can be caused by sexually transmitted infections and inflammation:

• gallbladder;
• lymph nodes of the mesentery of the intestine;
• urinary tract;
• intestinal mucosa;
• appendix;
• ileum.

in the middle

If a woman’s lower abdomen hurts a lot in the middle part, the cause may be a violation of the digestive system. This condition is provoked by prolonged constipation, intestinal upset due to malnutrition, and the development of dysbacteriosis. Gynecological causes can also be factors in the occurrence of pain syndrome:

• the process of ovulation;
• menstruation;
• bearing a child;
• the formation of tumors, cysts;
• development of endometriosis;
• fertilization process;
• inflammation of the uterus, appendages.

Lower abdomen hurts, nausea

When the pain syndrome is accompanied by nausea, experts diagnose disorders in the digestive system. Severe condition causes food poisoning, chemicals. If you feel sick when a pain syndrome appears, this may accompany such pathologies:

• inflammation of the pancreas - pancreatitis;
• intestinal colic;
• peritonitis - inflammation of the peritoneum;
• gastritis;
• ulcer disease.

Nausea appears if it cuts the lower abdominal cavity as a result of gynecological disorders that occur in a woman's body. These symptoms may occur if:

• twisting of the appendages, peduncle cysts;
• adhesive disease;
• dysmenorrhea;
• cyst rupture;
• inflammation of the appendages after an abortion, childbirth;
• premature detachment of the placenta;
• ectopic pregnancy.

Resi

Cutting pain in the lower abdomen in women often requires urgent medical attention. anxiety symptoms can cause ulcerative colitis, an inflammation of the bladder. Cutting, burning during urination is accompanied by cystitis. Often the cause of such pain is:

• the beginning of contractions before childbirth;
• infection of the fallopian tubes;
• endometritis (inflammation of the uterine mucosa);
• malignant tumors of the reproductive system;
• cervicitis (inflammatory process in the cervical canal);
• threat of termination of pregnancy;
• detachment of the placenta;
• uterine rupture;
• miscarriage.

Pain in the stomach and lower abdomen

The first painful symptoms appear with the onset of the inflammatory process in the mucous membranes of the stomach. In this condition, a woman develops nausea, the pain is aching in nature, localized on the left side. When the stomach and lower abdominal cavity aches, this may signal the development of such processes:

• erosion of the mucous membranes - peptic ulcer;
• the appearance of neoplasms in the cavity;
• the occurrence of a hernia;
• inflammation of the pancreas, negatively affecting the stomach.

When pressed

When complaining of pain, the doctor performs palpation not only of the lower abdominal cavity, but also of its other areas. This helps to identify a hernia of the stomach, the presence of neoplasms, changes in the size of organs. When pressed, pain may occur. This condition appears when:

• gastroesophageal reflux disease;
• poorly digested food;
• intestinal colic;
• helminthic invasion.

Pain when pressing on the lower abdomen in women is a symptom of poor-quality food poisoning. Unpleasant sensations can occur if diagnosed:

• peptic ulcer of the duodenum, stomach;
• peritonitis;
• acute appendicitis;
• cholelithiasis;
• exacerbation of gastritis;
• urinary tract infections;
• Crohn's disease;
• gynecological pathologies;
• ectopic pregnancy;
• hernia.

Pain in the lower abdomen and discharge

Painful syndrome in gynecological pathologies is often accompanied by vaginal discharge. They differ in color, smell, intensity. The lower abdomen is painful in such diseases:

	Allocations	Peculiarities
endometritis	bloody	occur in the middle of the cycle
placental abruption
ectopic pregnancy (fallopian tube rupture)
gonorrhea, trichomoniasis	yellow, brown	Bad smell
chlamydia, mycoplasmosis
endometriosis	dark brown
	bleeding	plentiful
uterine cancer		putrid smell
inflammation of the cervix		burning sensation when urinating

In the morning

The lower abdomen of a woman in the morning hurts due to disturbances in the work of the gastrointestinal tract. The reason for this condition is a large amount of food eaten at night, which did not have time to be digested. The digestive organs could not cope with such a load. The pain causes a state of pregnancy, a feeling of hunger in the morning, if there was an early dinner. Discomfort is caused by pathologies of the digestive tract:

• intestinal infections;
• poisoning;
• pancreatitis;
• helminthic invasions;
• peptic ulcer;
• food allergies;
• appendicitis;
• neoplasms;
• adhesive disease.

After meal

The lower abdomen often hurts after eating. The causes of this condition are associated with a violation of the digestive system. Pain syndrome, heaviness in the stomach, are provoked by overeating, eating fried, fatty, spicy foods. The condition is accompanied by belching, heartburn, vomiting, irrigation pain in the hypochondrium. The reasons for such sensations in women after eating may be:

• gastritis (damage to the mucous membrane of the walls of the stomach);
• appendicitis;
• cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder);
• irritable bowel syndrome;
• stomach ulcer.

Pain in the lower abdomen and fever

Often, pain in women is accompanied by symptoms of intoxication of the body. Fever, weakness, nausea, diarrhea can occur as a result of poisoning with chemicals, food, alcohol. Hyperthermia and pain syndrome in the lower abdominal cavity are accompanied by such pathologies:

• intestinal obstruction;
• hernia;
• acute appendicitis;
• adhesive processes;
• varicose veins of the pelvic veins;
• enterocolitis;
• acute cystitis.

When the stomach hurts and the temperature rises, these may be symptoms of kidney disease. In women in this case, urinary retention is observed, nephrolithiasis, pyelonephritis, infectious pathologies are diagnosed, the causative agents of which are harmful bacteria, fungi. Hyperthermia often accompanies such gynecological problems:

• inflammation of the uterine appendages;
• violation of the menstrual cycle;
• consequences of an abortion;
• rupture of an ovarian cyst;
• postpartum inflammation;
• ectopic pregnancy;
• placental abruption;
• uterine myoma.

When walking

When the lower abdominal cavity hurts and the symptoms in women increase with movement, this is a signal for the development of pathologies of the digestive tract, cardiovascular, and genitourinary systems. Such signs are characteristic of diseases of the spine. Pain when walking may be accompanied by:

• cystitis;
• pyelonephritis;
• appendicitis;
• urolithiasis;
• injuries of the kidneys, pancreas;
• fracture of the pelvic bones;
• thrombosis, rupture, blockage of the vessels of the abdominal wall;
• osteochondrosis lumbar spine;
• myocardial infarction;
• hernia;
• pneumonia;
• pericarditis;
• pleurisy.

Often, painful symptoms when walking are noted in pregnant women as a result of sprains during fetal growth. The lower abdomen hurts in a woman who has the following pathologies of the reproductive organs:

• fibromyoma of the uterus;
• sepsis as a consequence of abortion;
• endometriosis (pain increases during menstruation, sexual intercourse);
• adhesive processes;
• sexual infections (chlamydia, mycoplasmosis, gonorrhea);
• risk of miscarriage;
• ectopic pregnancy.

Pain in the lower abdomen and diarrhea in women

The appearance, in addition to soreness in the lower part of the abdominal cavity, diarrhea is a sign of pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract. The condition is accompanied by weakness, nausea, bloating, fever. Symptoms of the disorder can occur when fasting, overeating, eating fatty foods, the development of such pathologies:

• irritable bowel syndrome;
• celiac disease (intolerance to vegetable protein gluten);
• autoimmune hepatitis;
• acute intestinal ischemia;
• ulcerative colitis;
• obstruction of the colon;
• appendicitis;
• cholecystitis;
• stomach ulcers.

Give to the lower back

If a woman feels that her lower abdomen aches and radiates to the lumbosacral region, first of all, you need to visit a gynecologist. Such symptoms are noted with numerous pathologies of the female reproductive system. The appearance of signs may accompany the development of:

• uterine fibroids;
• polycystic ovaries;
• prolonged menstruation;
• bending of the uterus;
• twisting of the appendages;
• ectopic pregnancy;
• adhesive process;
• apoplexy (ovarian rupture);
• vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina);
• threats of miscarriage;
• torsion of the pedicle of an ovarian cyst.

When the lower abdomen and lower back ache, the cause may be associated with the development of osteochondrosis of the spinal spine, in which the nerve roots are pinched. There are reasons for the appearance of such signs common to women and men. These include:

• intestinal infections;
• appendicitis;
• urolithiasis disease;
• colitis (inflammation of the colon mucosa);
• infections of the genitourinary system;
• intervertebral disc injuries;
• varicose veins of the small pelvis;
• haemorrhoids.

Give to the anus

Discomfort in the lower abdomen in women is often accompanied by sharp or aching pains that radiate to the anus. Such symptoms indicate the presence of inflammatory processes in the pelvic area. Pain radiating to the anus may be a confirmation of the development of:

• hemorrhoids;
• rectal fissures;
• paraproctitis (inflammation of the anal glands);
• accumulation of fluid in the pelvic cavity.

Pain in the lower abdomen, radiating to the anus, occurs with gynecological pathologies. They are often accompanied by vaginal discharge. Such symptoms are observed in the case of an ectopic pregnancy, threats of miscarriage, the appearance of benign neoplasms - fibroids, fibromyomas. Symptoms may accompany inflammatory processes:

• uterine appendages (salpingoophoritis);
• vaginal mucosa (colpitis);
• the inner layer of the uterus (endometritis).

The appearance of pain in the abdomen, radiating to the anus, is characteristic of pathological processes occurring in the ovaries. This condition is sometimes observed in the formation of:

• hyperfunction as a result of stimulation before IVF (in vitro fertilization);
• polycystic;
• apoplexy (sudden tissue rupture with bleeding);
• twisting of the cyst leg;
• suppuration.

Diagnostics

Since pain in the lower part of the abdominal cavity accompanies numerous diseases, it is important to conduct a correct diagnosis. The doctor chooses research methods, starting from the symptoms of the pathological condition. Necessarily conducts palpation to clarify the localization of the pain syndrome. During the reception, he collects an anamnesis, finds out:

• nature, possible causes of pain;
• frequency of manifestations;
• additional symptoms.

Mandatory for all patients are a general, biochemical blood test, urinalysis. If you suspect a disease of the digestive system, carry out:

• analysis of feces for occult blood;
• intragastric pH-metry (measurement of acidity);
• scatological examination of feces;
• endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography;
• study of gastric juice;
• FGDS - fibrogastroduodenoscopy, examining the stomach, duodenum, esophagus.

To detect neoplasms, pathological changes, specialists prescribe CT - computed tomography of the organs located in the abdominal cavity, depending on the proposed location. In the event of a painful syndrome as a result of problems with the urination system, the following are used for diagnosis:

• cystoscopy - examination inner surface Bladder;
• cystography - radiographic determination of changes in the organ;
• bacteriological examination of scrapings from the urethra to determine sexually transmitted infections.

If the cause of pain is associated with gynecological problems, the doctor prescribes blood tests for the presence of HPV (human papillomavirus), genital infections, and, if necessary, for tumor markers. Additionally, the following studies are carried out:

• a smear from the vagina (there is an increased content of leukocytes);
• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs;
• bacteriological culture of scrapings from the vagina, cervix to identify genital infections.

What to do if the lower abdomen hurts

The doctor prescribes treatment for the woman depending on the symptoms. Much attention is paid to the nature of pain. You need to do the following:

Pain symptoms	Pathologies	Events
Moderate, persistent		examination in the clinic testing performing ultrasound of the pelvic organs, abdominal cavity
Severe, sharp pain		call an ambulance
	ectopic pregnancy torsion of the ovarian cyst acute appendicitis	emergency surgery
	uterine fibroids ovarian cysts cholecystitis oncology	planned operation

When the diagnosis is confirmed, doctors of the relevant specialization - gynecologist, nephrologist, gastroenterologist - prescribe treatment, including conservative methods:

• medications to relieve inflammation;
• drugs that relieve pain, spasms;
• antibiotics for bacterial infection;
• means to maintain immunity;
• vitamin complexes;
• physiotherapy procedures;
• acupuncture;
• performing therapeutic exercises;
• diet use;
• observance of hygiene rules.

The treatment of a specific disease is prescribed by the doctor, taking into account the nature of the pain, all the symptoms of the disease. The following methods are used:

Disease		Therapy Methods
endometriosis	gynecologist	hormonal, anti-inflammatory drugs, electrophoresis
Gonorrhea, trichomoniasis	venereologist	antibiotics
pancreatitis	gastroenterologist	diet, analgesics, enzymes, antispasmodics, H2-blockers
stomach ulcer		antacids, cytoprotectors, antiulcer agents, probiotics
		antiseptics, antibiotics, antispasmodics, analgesics

Video

Women's ailments are often associated with discomfort in the lower abdomen. The causes of pain are many-sided and imply both the failure of the reproductive system and the imbalance of other organs. Therefore, you need to focus on a whole range of symptoms.

What can hurt

Scroll possible diseases with a sign in the form of severe pain in the abdominal cavity for the fair sex is extremely wide. When considering the cause of the process, age, the nature of uncomfortable sensations, and their duration are taken into account.

The TOP provoking factors are headed by:

• Dysfunctions of the stomach and intestines, bladder, appendages.
• Violation of innervation against the background of osteochondrosis.
• Vertebral injury.
• Muscle strain.

A significant role is also played by the constantly changing hormonal background, which triggers different phases cycle.

Classification of causes by groups

Pain in the lower abdomen in women is caused by functional and organic negative factors.

The first group includes:

• Failure of the monthly cycle. In a professional environment, pathology is called algomenorrhea. Often the result of this phenomenon is spontaneous uterine bleeding.
• ovulatory syndrome.
• The presence of anatomical anomalies and congestion caused by them.

To the number possible causes organic nature include:

• Violations of the structures that form the reproductive system.
• Installation of an intrauterine device.
• The presence of acute surgical diseases.
• The period of pregnancy or postmenopause.

Pain can be classified according to the nature of its manifestation. It is important to understand that only a doctor is able to understand the essence of the process, who is able to adequately correlate the symptoms that form the clinical picture and exclude psychosomatics.

In this video, Elena Malysheva talks about a common disease that causes pain:

Causes of aching pain

Unpleasant pulling sensations can be the result of such processes:

1. Formation and growth of the cyst. The appearance of formations filled with blood or liquid is accompanied by discomfort localized on the one hand, a decrease in the number critical days or, conversely, more frequent menstruation. If suppuration of the pathological structure occurs, the pain becomes sharp and is complemented by nausea, fever.
2. An aching sensation may accompany the period of ovulation, when the egg leaves the follicle. Strengthening the discomfort that occurs only in one side is facilitated by pressing on the stomach, intimate relationships. The condition may be aggravated due to weakness, nausea.
   If such a syndrome is confirmed, doctors recommend refraining from intimacy on dangerous days, since excitement is fraught with rupture of the follicle.
3. Vaginitis, manifested by inflammation of the vaginal mucosa. As a result of the action of the bacterial flora, hormonal imbalance, and insufficient hygiene, aching pains in the lower abdomen occur with the addition of a large amount of foul-smelling discharge, itching, redness, and tissue swelling. The pain is aggravated by urination and sexual intercourse.
4. The stomach can also ache as a result of a malfunction of the ligamentous apparatus that supports the uterus and appendages. Dull pain often worries older women. Among the provoking factors include weight lifting, childbirth with accompanying injuries.
   In gynecology, the disease is called genital prolapse. With its development, both the stomach and the lower back can pull, the excretory system suffers, which manifests itself in incontinence or stagnation of urine, diarrhea, and constipation.

Severe aching pain is also due to the phases of the cycle. So, deterioration is possible in the premenstrual period and the first two days of menstruation. The cause of the negative symptom is the contraction of the walls of the uterus in order to cleanse it.

If a sharp cutting spasm is diagnosed

Sudden disturbing sensations accompany the following serious conditions:

• Ovarian hemorrhage or apoplexy with violation of tissue integrity and leakage of physiological fluid into the abdominal cavity. Sharp pains can be given to the rectum, groin, back. Against the background of severe discomfort, dizziness, weakness, and nausea often occur, which is explained by active blood loss. If the situation is severe, urgent surgical treatment is required.
• Mechanical defect of the cyst in the form of torsion of the leg. Severe pain is due to impaired vascular blood flow and tissue death. From the very beginning, the pathology manifests itself acutely, discomfort is localized only from the side of the inflamed structure and is supplemented by fever, vomiting, and nausea. An urgent referral to the hospital was indicated.
• Violation of the health of the uterus or appendages with the development of adnexitis, salpingo-oophoritis. Abrupt pain in the lower abdomen may appear after natural or artificial childbirth. Severe dyspepsia, fever join the list of symptoms. Left untreated, it can lead to life-threatening peritonitis.

When inflammation develops independent process under the influence of infection or hypothermia, the sensations are not cutting, but pulling.

Factors that provoke stabbing pain

Such a spasm signals pathologies of both the reproductive and digestive systems.

Ectopic pregnancy

Stitching pain is one of the signs of such a pathology, which is characterized by the attachment of a fetal egg to the ovary or abdominal cavity. Unpleasant sensations in the lower abdomen can be supplemented by bloody or brown spotting, swelling of the mammary glands, and nausea. On examination, the mucosa is stained in a cyanotic hue.

The place of localization of discomfort is on the right or left side of the pubic bone. Increased pain occurs during palpation of the specified area.

Proctosigmoiditis

Pathology is a type of colitis and is accompanied by a violation of the health of the internal walls of the intestine. Periodic relapses of inflammation are possible with the development of negative symptoms in other areas of the digestive tract.

Increased pain in the lower abdomen contributes to the act of defecation. Additional signs of the disease include nausea, stool disorders, sensation in the intestines of a foreign object, weakness due to intoxication of the body.

Acute appendicitis

The cause of local inflammation of the appendix is ​​the influence of intestinal microflora. In most situations, unpleasant sensations are localized to the right, closer to the center of the abdomen, but it is also possible that the pain “spills” into the pubic region, its similarity to severe colitis. Gradually, the discomfort becomes tolerable, which is not a favorable sign.

Additional symptoms of the disease are dyspeptic disorders with diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, foul-smelling belching.

diverticulitis

We are talking about the development of an inflammatory process in the intestinal area, where hernial protrusions are formed. In such bags, food chyme mixes with microflora and the contents stagnate. The result is pathological processes in the structures of the diverticulum and a tense state of the muscles of the anterior wall.

A sharp pain of a stabbing nature in this situation is localized in the lower left part at the site of the projection of the sigmoid colon, anus. Point discomfort persists for 2-3 days, an increase in discomfort is possible after physical exertion, laughter, sneezing, coughing.

Cystitis

Inflammation of the bladder mucosa occurs due to infection with pathogens. Soreness is present in the middle of the abdomen in its lower part. Burning discomfort occurs during trips to the toilet. It seems as if the emptying is partial, so the urge is more frequent. Additional signs - fever, imbalance of night and day diuresis.

When the pain syndrome occurs from time to time

Periodic discomfort may indicate such pathologies:

We are talking about the growth of epithelial cells outside the uterine mucosa. Fallopian tubes, ovaries and even intestines can be involved in the process. Due to the sensitivity of proliferating cells to hormonal fluctuations, constant changes are observed with the onset of the next cycle.

They can be judged by regular bleeding, which contributes to the transition of inflammation to nearby tissues. The risk group for this pathology is formed by women of reproductive age, in young girls it is diagnosed extremely rarely.

Periodic pain in the lower abdomen occurs only on the eve of menstruation, but over time, discomfort persists throughout the cycle and intensifies with intimacy, after emptying the bladder and intestines. Monthly discharge can be both scarce and plentiful. Additional signs are bad mood, migraines, disturbed night sleep.

A characteristic symptom is the inability of the female body to conceive a child.

The initiator is a bacterial infection, provoking factors are insufficient hygiene, STIs. After the pathogenic flora enters the vagina in conditions of high humidity and heat, microorganisms begin to actively multiply. Over time, the process spreads to the entire reproductive system, affecting the ovaries, uterus, tubes.

Spikes are able to block the lumen of organs, making it impossible for the physiological movement of the egg and leading to infertility. If the female material still reaches its destination, the risk of an ectopic pregnancy, requiring emergency surgical intervention, increases.

Pain during pregnancy

Such discomfort is far from uncommon for expectant mothers. Unpleasant symptoms accompany the first trimester, when the body adapts to a new status and carries out global hormonal changes. Pain is also disturbing in the later period, which can be regarded as a normal physiological process in the form of uterine tone, changes in the ligamentous apparatus, lack of calcium, and a sign of a threat to gestation due to increased pressure on the cervix.

A reliable remedy for malaise is the relaxation of the body, a change in its position. Some doctors recommend resorting to moderate physical activity, but only if there are no contraindications.

When on later dates in the lower abdomen, it becomes sharply painful, dizziness is noted, you should immediately seek medical help because of the risk of placental abruption, a dangerous intrauterine death of the baby.

Starting from the 36th week, spasms with tension of the uterine muscles may occur from time to time - training contractions. Although this phenomenon is considered the norm, one should not neglect the advice of a gynecologist.

Pain with menopause

Unpleasant sensations with the advent of menopause are localized only in the abdomen or are surrounded by a ring, spreading to the sacrum. Causes negative changes lie in the following:

• development of uterine fibroids. If menopause occurs after 50 years, against the background of increased estrogen production, the likelihood of the formation of a benign formation increases. The pain is crampy or aching, and spotting is present.
• Endometriosis. The manifestation of pathology has already been described above.
• Chronic salpingitis. We are talking about a latent inflammatory process, accompanied by the formation of adhesions and accumulation of fluid. In the advanced stage, there is severe unbearable pain.
• Flushing out calcium from the body. The lack of this particular mineral, due to a decrease in estrogen production, provokes back pain, malfunctions in the functioning of the cardiovascular system, and the brain. At the same time, bone structures are weakened, the spine suffers. Increased discomfort occurs during physical exertion, wearing heavy weights.
• Fusion of the internal tissues of the uterus, its atrophy with a decrease in size. As a result, synechia is formed in the reproductive organ, an accumulation of inflammatory fluid is noted. The pain is constant and unbearable.
• development of the cancer process. If there is pain that persists for a long time, oncology at a late stage can be suspected. Therefore, women who have entered menopause should seek qualified help, even if there are complaints about periodic sipping of the sacrum and abdomen.

Prevention of the conditions listed above during menopause are considered homeopathic remedies, presented in state pharmacies by several positions. Remens and Klimadinon are especially popular.

Who to contact

Alternative methods for the treatment of abdominal pain in women and medicinal antispasmodics, analgesics are appropriate only after the cause of the pathological process has been identified and the planned scheme has been approved by a specialized doctor. In no case should you delay a visit with chronic discomfort or a sharp spasm, accompanied by a deterioration in general well-being.

Doctors of several specializations, including a gynecologist, urologist, proctologist, are able to help in solving the problem that has arisen. It is useful in the presence of signs of dyspepsia to visit a gastroenterologist. To exclude psychosomatics and infringement of the nerve processes, they consult with a neurologist. In difficult situations requiring surgical intervention, they turn to surgeons.

As a rule, finding out the pain-provoking factor begins with a visit to a therapist or female doctor, who collect information about the localization of unpleasant sensations, their nature. It is mandatory to pass a complex of tests: urine and blood, smears. At the discretion of the doctor, CT or ultrasound of the pelvic organs is performed. With this approach, you can count on the most reliable diagnostic result, adequate treatment and speedy recovery.

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Body problems often signal discomfort in various parts of the body and are diverse in nature.

If a woman's lower abdomen hurts, then this is a serious reason to see a doctor.

Causes

Pain in the lower abdomen is associated with organic and functional causes. The former include inflammatory processes in the female organs with the possible occurrence of neoplasms, the use of contraceptives, damage to neighboring organs, pathologies associated with pregnancy. Causes of a functional nature are associated with a violation of the menstrual cycle.

Pathology of the genital organs

According to statistics, every second woman experiences pain in the lower abdomen, the cause of this is the inflammatory process of the female organs, endometriosis (growth of the inner layer of the uterine wall beyond it), infection, transmitted by sexual contact, the development of uterine fibroids (benign neoplasms).

Gynecological pathologies are characterized by pain during sexual intercourse, menstruation, emptying the bladder or rectum.

Pregnancy or its complications

Pain in the lower abdomen in women can be felt when carrying a child. The first three months, the muscles adapt to changes in the body and undergo the necessary stretching.

The cause of severe obsessive pain with bloody discharge, tension in the abdomen during pregnancy can be placental abruption, indigestion, constipation, appendicitis, pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).

An ectopic pregnancy is characterized by severe pain in the abdomen, back, pressure drops sharply, the temperature rises, and loss of consciousness is possible.

Feelings after an abortion are considered natural pains, but if they do not go away in a day, then this indicates an inflammatory process or through damage to the walls of the uterus.

Pathology of the urinary tract

If the reasons are not related to gynecology, then why does the lower abdomen hurt? Inflammation of the genitourinary system provokes the development of cystitis, pyelonephritis, kidney stones. Pathologies may be accompanied by fever, discomfort during urination, swelling.

congenital pathology

Abnormal development of the female genital organs is often the cause of abdominal discomfort. Congenital pathologies include: a violation of the structure of the genitals, the absence of an organ or part of it, an undeveloped canal or opening, non-compliance with the norms of sizes, shapes, proportions, the presence of neoplasms.

The intestines, the diseases and symptoms of which are manifested by uncomfortable sensations in the lower abdomen, may be completely or partially inflamed. In this case, there is a functional failure, possibly internal bleeding, fainting.

The pathologies of the organs of the peritoneal cavity include diverticulosis (protrusion of a certain section of the intestinal wall), appendicitis, pathologies of the stomach, gallbladder, spleen, as well as intestinal overcrowding, the occurrence of spasms in an empty stomach.

Soreness of the menstrual cycle

As mentioned above, pain preceding menstruation and occurring during this period are associated with functional causes and are not a deviation from the norm.

Other factors

In addition to these reasons, discomfort in the abdomen is felt under the following circumstances:

• adaptation after surgery;
• climate change;
• decreased immunity and vitamin deficiency;
• viral diseases, hypothermia;
• menopause;
• long-term use of contraceptives, antibiotics;
• some pathologies: problems with the endocrine system, diabetes, metabolic disorders, obesity, anorexia;
• pinched hernia;
• after sexual contact;
• stress, rape;
• alcohol abuse, drug use;
• oncological problems.

Types of pain, their symptoms

Pain in the abdomen are different: pulsating, constant, paroxysmal, localized in a certain part, radiating to the lower back, anus, collarbone area, left hypochondrium.

Pulsating

Pain of this nature is present with increased pressure in the hollow organs, ovarian abscess, the formation of purulent fluid in the fallopian tube.

Permanent

Dull continuous pain occurs against the background of:

Pain of this nature does not tolerate delay, so you need to urgently seek help from a doctor. Diseases can be different, such as:

• disruption of the gastrointestinal tract;
• ectopic pregnancy;
• appendicitis;
• rupture or torsion of the neoplasm;
• thrush;
• exfoliation of the placenta during pregnancy;
• myomatous node in the wall of the uterus;
• intestinal obstruction.

Bottom left. Chronic inflammation of the appendage creates aching pain in the lower abdomen on the left in women, and in advanced cases causes infertility. A benign tumor in the form of an overgrown cyst compresses neighboring organs and tissues, causing pain. As for an oncological tumor, sharp pains are felt immediately at an early stage.

Failure of the functions of the sigmoid colon, which is responsible for the functioning of the digestive tract, causes pain in the left side of the abdomen, especially after a long walk, driving over bumps, before defecation (emptying the intestines). Also, discomfort is felt with the development of the inflammatory process of the lower colon, intestinal upset, and diseases of the genitourinary system.

Pain in the lower abdomen on the left is also associated with a disease of the stomach, the development of a hernia in the diaphragm. With an infectious pathology in the pelvic area, the lower abdomen hurts on the left, strong pulling discomfort does not stop for several hours.

If it hurts in the left lower abdomen, then to determine the specific disease, you should pay attention to the intensity and type of sensations.

Left and right. The twisted leg of the ovarian cyst, inflammation of the appendages is signaled by very severe pain on both sides.

in the middle. The lower abdomen can hurt in the center in case of endometritis (inflammation of the mucous membrane of the uterus), endometriosis (growth of the mucous tissues of the uterus to other organs). Similar sensations cause problems with the pancreas, sending pains to the left and right lower parts.

On right. Unrelenting pain indicates inflammation of the appendix.

Give to the lower back

These symptoms of the postpartum period may indicate injury to the intervertebral discs, urinary tract disease, pathologies in the field of proctology, urology, and vascular medicine.

Give to the anus

Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy that occur in the first trimester (up to 12 weeks) when the tube ruptures.

Spread to the clavicle and left hypochondrium

Acute pelvic inflammatory disease can lead to active production of purulent fluid, which causes localized pain. The same symptoms are present as additional signs of rupture of the fallopian tube.

These include uncomfortable conditions:

• during the period of ovulation (possibility of fertilization);
• within a week after successful delivery;
• during menstruation.

If the pain is very disturbing, then a doctor's consultation is necessary.

Associated symptoms

There are a number of additional signs that accompany the development of various diseases:

• general weakness, chills;
• nausea, vomiting;
• bleeding between menstrual cycles;
• bleeding after sexual intercourse or during pregnancy;
• the presence of blood or turbid inclusions in the urine;
• purulent discharge;
• frequent urination;
• vascular collapse (acute heart failure against the background of low vascular tone, which leads to a drop in pressure and loss of consciousness);
• temperature increase.

How to help yourself

For severe pain

It is required to turn to emergency services, before the arrival of which you should lie down carefully, while the room should be ventilated, and the woman should be provided with peace and quiet. An ice heating pad or bottle is placed on the stomach for 20-25 minutes, periodically changing. It is permissible to take no more than two tablets of no-shpy. You can not eat and drink, put enemas, warm the stomach.

With constant moderate pain

It is recommended to undergo an examination: ultrasound of the abdominal cavity and pelvic organs, donate blood and smears. If you are worried about the stomach during urination, then before visiting the doctor, you can temporarily remove the pain symptoms with an infusion of aspen buds, which is taken 5 times a day, 2 tablespoons.

You should also see a gynecologist, traumatologist, urologist, proctologist, nephrologist to confirm or exclude the diagnosis. If inflammation of the urinary tract is detected, the doctor prescribes anti-inflammatory drugs with minimal side effects, medicines that correct immunity, vitamin injections, physiotherapy procedures.

Endometriosis is treated with hormonal drugs, too much pain during menstruation is eliminated by anti-inflammatory drugs recommended by a gynecologist. Relief is brought by acupuncture procedures, electrophoresis. To get rid of discomfort, exclusion from the diet of milk, fresh vegetables and fruits, black bread, and spices can help.