It can also be resulting from problems with other organs in the abdomen such as the intestines or bladder.
It may feel sharp, dull, or heavy.
These conditions are unique to females and can fluctuate depending on the stages of the menstrual cycle.
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Other times, pain may be worsened with activities such as urination or intercourse.
Menstrual Cramps
Menstrual crampingis commonplace leading up to and during the menstrual cycle.
Menstrual cramps are typically felt throughout the entire pelvic region and can ebb and flow in intensity.
These are hormones that cause the uterus to contract forcefully.
Ovulation
Ovulation (when the ovaries release an egg) can cause pain in some people.
This jot down of pain usually feels dull, though it can also be sharp and sudden.
It can occur on either side of your abdomen but typically only affects one side at a time.
A developing fetus can place a lot of pressure and strain on structures of the lower abdomen.
Ectopic Pregnancy
Anectopic pregnancyoccurs when an embryo develops outside of the uterus.
This typically occurs as a fertilized egg gets stuck and attaches to thefallopian tube.
Pain with an ectopic pregnancy is located on one side of the lower abdomen.
If an ectopic pregnancy ruptures, it is a medical emergency and can lead to severe internal bleeding.
Miscarriage
Amiscarriageoccurs when a pregnancy is lost unexpectedly.
Endometrial-like tissue, called lesions, bleeds and causes chronic pain in the lower abdomen and pelvic regions.
Complications include tissue adhering to surrounding structures, which can cause more pain and inflammation.
Adenomyosis
Adenomyosisis a condition that is similar to endometriosis, in which abnormal endometrial-like tissue grows.
This causes the following symptoms:
Fibroids
Fibroidsare benign growths that form within the uterus.
Ovarian Cysts
Anovarian cystis a fluid-filled sac that develops on one or both of the ovaries.
Ovarian cysts are often harmless and painless and tend to go away on their own.
But other times, ovarian cysts canrupture, causing sharp, sudden pain and heavy bleeding.
Pelvic floor muscles help support the core and organs of the lower abdomen.
It typically results from the spread of an infection from the vagina or cervix.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)such aschlamydiaandgonorrhea, are the most common causes of PID.
Symptoms include unusual vaginal discharge and pelvic pain with urination and intercourse.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Conditions of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract can cause pain in females and males.
Food poisoning and viruses such as the norovirus can cause gastroenteritis.
It can cause frequent constipation or diarrhea, sometimes both.
One of the most common symptoms of IBS is abdominal pain.
Both conditions cause abdominal pain.
It shows up when the appendixa part of the intestinesbecomes irritated or blocked.
If you have appendicitis, you may have other symptoms such as fever, constipation, or diarrhea.
Appendicitis is an emergency and requires immediate medical treatment.
This may feel like pressure or cramping and can also be felt in the lower back.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones can cause a gradual or sudden onset of abdominal pain.
Pain from kidney stones tends to be continuous and becomes progressively worse over minutes to hours.
People with kidney stones may also experience nausea, vomiting, and/or loss of appetite.
Injury
An injury to the lower abdomen could also be the cause of pain.
If you’re experiencing pain in your abdomen after an accident, see a healthcare provider right away.
What It Feels Like
Lower abdominal pelvic pain in females can feel sharp or dull.
Many conditions cause a feeling of pressure, bloating, or heaviness around the pelvis and lower abdomen.
Pain can come and go in intense bursts or stay steady throughout the day.
Pain may be brought on or made worse with urination or intercourse.
Pain Relief
Some at-home treatment options can be used to decrease cramping and pelvic pain.
If you experience ongoing abdominal pain during menstruation for more than two cycles, talk with your healthcare provider.
Some degree of menstrual cramping and associated discomfort is commonplace with menstruation.
This includes severe lower abdominal or pelvic pain and heavy bleeding.
These include menstrual cramps, pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, preterm labor, endometriosis, and more.
Pelvic pain, heaviness, and abnormal bleeding commonly occur in many of these disorders.
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