Why Does My Lower Stomach Hurt?

Lower stomach pain can stem from various sources, ranging from minor digestive issues to more serious medical conditions. Let's explore some potential causes.

Many instances of lower stomach pain originate from the digestive system. Common culprits include:

• Gas: Trapped gas can cause bloating and discomfort in the lower abdomen.
• Indigestion: This often manifests as heartburn, bloating, and pain in the upper or lower abdomen.
• Constipation: Difficulty passing stool can lead to abdominal cramping and pain.
• Colitis: Inflammation of the large intestine (colon) can cause lower abdominal pain, cramping, and changes in bowel habits.
• Diverticular disease: Small pouches that form in the digestive tract can become inflamed, leading to pain, especially in the lower left abdomen.
• Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, a small organ attached to the large intestine, can cause severe pain in the lower right abdomen. This requires immediate medical attention.

Gynecological Conditions:

For women, lower abdominal pain can be related to reproductive health:

• Menstrual cramps: Painful cramping in the lower abdomen during menstruation is common.
• Pregnancy: Various conditions during pregnancy can cause abdominal pain.

Other Potential Causes:

Beyond digestive and gynecological issues, other causes of lower stomach pain include:

• Kidney stones: These can cause severe pain in the flank (side) and lower abdomen.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): These infections can cause lower abdominal pain along with other symptoms like frequent urination and burning.
• Infections: Various infections can cause abdominal pain.
• Ulcers: Stomach or duodenal ulcers can cause abdominal pain.
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic inflammatory conditions that can cause abdominal pain.
• Celiac disease: An autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten can cause abdominal pain and other digestive problems.
• Small or large bowel obstruction: Blockages in the intestines can lead to severe abdominal pain.
• Enlarged prostate (BPH) or prostatitis: In men, these conditions can cause lower abdominal discomfort.
• Bladder obstruction: Scar tissue or other obstructions in the bladder can cause pain.
• Food allergies or lactose intolerance: These can lead to digestive upset and abdominal pain.
• Food poisoning or stomach virus: These can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
• Endometriosis: A condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. If you experience persistent or severe lower abdominal pain, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.