What Causes Lower Abdominal Pain in Females?

Lower abdominal pain in women can stem from various conditions, including issues related to the gastrointestinal tract, urinary system, musculoskeletal concerns, and gynecological health. It is essential to assess each case thoroughly to identify the underlying cause. Providers will ask detailed questions about the pain’s onset, duration, location, and associated symptoms like menstrual changes, vaginal discharge, fever, nausea, or urinary issues. Information about sexual history, contraceptive use, and prior gynecological problems is also crucial.

A physical exam, including a pelvic examination, may be performed to check for tenderness or abnormalities. To further investigate the cause, diagnostic tests like urine analysis, pregnancy tests, and blood work may be recommended. Imaging studies, such as pelvic ultrasounds, could also be considered to differentiate between gynecological and non-gynecological causes.

If a gynecological issue is suspected, appropriate treatment can be initiated, or a referral to a gynecologist may be made for further evaluation. In urgent cases, such as ectopic pregnancy or severe infections, immediate referrals or hospital care are arranged.

The goal is to provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment while coordinating any necessary specialized care. If you’re experiencing lower abdominal pain, trust the team to offer thorough, compassionate care tailored to your needs.

Lower abdominal pain in women can have a range of causes, from mild issues to serious, life-threatening conditions. It is important to recognize when this pain requires immediate medical attention.

Urgent care should be sought if you experience sudden and severe lower abdominal pain, particularly with the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Persistent vomiting
• Dizziness or fainting
• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Signs of shock, such as rapid heartbeat and clammy skin
• Severe pain during pregnancy, especially if accompanied by vaginal bleeding (which may indicate an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage)

Additionally, if the pain is accompanied by difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or stool, or if you have a history of conditions like ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease, and the pain feels different or worse than usual, immediate medical evaluation is necessary.

If you’re uncertain about the severity of your symptoms, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Trust your instincts—if the pain feels severe, unusual, or is worsening quickly, seek urgent care for proper evaluation and peace of mind.

When a woman presents with lower abdominal pain, a thorough evaluation is essential. Experienced providers begin by taking a detailed medical history, asking about the onset, duration, location, and characteristics of the pain. They also inquire about any related symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever, changes in bowel or urinary habits, and menstrual history. Information regarding sexual activity, contraceptive use, past medical or surgical history, and pregnancy status is gathered to ensure a complete understanding of the patient’s health.

A careful physical examination follows, including checking vital signs—temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate—to detect signs of a more serious condition. An abdominal exam is performed to identify tenderness, masses, or signs of infection or inflammation. The abdomen is also listened to with a stethoscope to assess digestive health.

If needed, a pelvic exam is performed to evaluate the uterus and ovaries for tenderness, enlargement, or masses. Depending on symptoms, a rectal exam may also be conducted.

To confirm the diagnosis, laboratory tests may include a urine pregnancy test, urinalysis for urinary tract infection, and screenings for sexually transmitted infections. Blood work may be done to detect signs of infection or anemia. In some cases, imaging studies like a pelvic ultrasound may be arranged to get a clearer view of internal organs and support the diagnosis.
 
At Primary Care Center of Clear Lake, our goal is to determine the cause of your symptoms and develop an effective treatment plan. If your condition requires specialized care, we will coordinate a referral to the appropriate specialist. Your health and comfort are our top priorities, and we are dedicated to providing thorough, patient-centered primary care every step of the way. For more information, please contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 13920 Osprey Ct, Suite C, Webster, TX 77598. We serve patients from Webster TX, Bacliff TX, Dickinson TX, Seabrook TX, League City TX, Clear Lake City TX, and surrounding areas.