Lower Abdominal Pain in Females: Common Causes & Treatment

At Prima Urgent Care, we understand that lower abdominal pain in women can be both uncomfortable and concerning. Many women experience abdominal discomfort at some point, and the causes can range from minor issues to conditions requiring urgent medical attention. Lower abdominal pain in women can result from a wide range of causes, some minor and temporary, while others may require medical attention. Common causes include digestive issues such as gas, constipation, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Gynecological factors are also frequent, including menstrual cramps, ovulation pain, endometriosis, fibroids, or ovarian cysts.

Other possible causes include urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). More serious conditions such as appendicitis, ectopic pregnancy, or bowel obstruction can also lead to significant lower abdominal pain. Because the causes vary widely, it’s important to pay attention to the severity, duration, and accompanying symptoms. If pain is severe, persistent, or associated with fever, heavy bleeding, or dizziness, prompt medical evaluation is recommended.

At Prima Urgent Care, our providers can evaluate your symptoms, perform the lab tests, and recommend the right treatment plan. We are dedicated to delivering timely, supportive care so you can feel better and stay healthy.

Menstrual cycles can commonly cause lower abdominal pain, often referred to as menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea. This pain occurs when the uterine muscles contract to shed the lining of the uterus, a normal part of the menstrual process. The intensity can vary from mild discomfort to stronger cramping, and for many, it is a routine part of their period.

In addition to abdominal pain, some may experience related symptoms such as back pain, nausea, headaches, or fatigue around the time of menstruation. These symptoms usually begin shortly before a period starts and improve within a few days. While menstrual discomfort is common, severe or persistent pain that disrupts daily activities may require medical evaluation to rule out underlying conditions.

At Prima Urgent Care, our experienced providers can evaluate your symptoms, provide prompt relief, and determine if further treatment is needed. We are here to help if your menstrual pain is unusually intense or if you have concerns about your symptoms. Your health and comfort are our top priorities!

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause lower abdominal pain in women by affecting the bladder, urethra, ureters, or kidneys. When the bladder is involved, women often feel pain or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvic region, which may present as a dull ache or occasionally a sharper pain.

Along with abdominal discomfort, UTIs often cause other symptoms such as a frequent urge to urinate, burning during urination, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and sometimes blood in the urine. Since UTIs are common in women, noticing these signs early and seeking timely medical care is important for proper treatment and prevention of complications.

If you are experiencing persistent lower abdominal pain with urinary symptoms, Prima Urgent Care is here to help. Our experienced healthcare team can quickly diagnose and treat UTIs, helping you find relief and preventing complications such as kidney infections.

Lower abdominal pain in women is a common concern and can stem from many different causes. Sometimes, the pain is related to normal processes like digestion or menstruation, but in other cases, it may be a sign of a more serious medical issue. Knowing when the pain is routine versus when it requires medical attention is important for protecting your health. Paying attention to the type of pain, how long it lasts, and whether it comes with other symptoms can help you decide when to seek care.

Mild Causes (Often Not Serious):

• Menstrual cramps
• Gas or bloating
• Minor digestive upset

When to Be Concerned:

• Pain that is sudden, severe, or persistent
• Pain that worsens over time or interferes with daily activities

Red-Flag Symptoms:

• Fever, nausea, or vomiting
• Heavy or irregular vaginal bleeding
• Painful urination or blood in urine
• Dizziness, fainting, or weakness
• Severe pain during pregnancy
• Pain after recent surgery

Possible Serious Conditions:

• Appendicitis
• Ovarian cysts or torsion
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Bowel obstruction

If any of these warning signs occur, urgent medical evaluation is recommended to prevent complications. At Prima Urgent Care, our experienced medical team is equipped to promptly evaluate and treat women experiencing lower abdominal pain. We offer on-site diagnostic testing and can help determine whether your symptoms require further emergency care or specialist follow-up.

For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 3903 Fair Ridge Dr Suite Q, Fairfax, VA 22033. We serve patients from Fairfax VA, South Riding VA, Dulles VA, Chantilly VA, Stone Ridge VA, Oakton VA, Legato VA, Burke VA, Oak Hill VA, Lees Corner VA & BEYOND! Our Fairfax location is close to Fair Oaks Hospital, Fair Oaks Mall, and Greenbriar Shopping Center.