What could cause lower abdominal pain when pooping or peeing?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Lower abdominal pain when pooping or peeing is often linked to conditions affecting the colon, bladder, or pelvic region. Common causes include urinary tract infections, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bladder inflammation, pelvic organ prolapse, and hernias that press on the bladder or ureters. Because these symptoms can overlap across multiple conditions, identifying the underlying cause quickly is important for effective treatment and relief.

If you're experiencing this type of pain, don't guess—get clarity. Taking a free, instant, and confidential symptom check can help you understand what may be causing your discomfort, highlight possible conditions to discuss with a doctor, and guide your next steps. It only takes a few minutes and could save you days of worry.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Lower abdominal pain during bowel movements or urination can be due to several reasons, including inflammation of the colon or bladder. Another possible cause is the interaction between the colon and bladder. When one organ is irritated or sensitive, it can affect the other, causing discomfort or pain. This is known as cross-organ sensitization.

Another reason could be pelvic organ prolapse. This is when organs like the bladder or uterus shift from their normal position, which can lead to problems with urination and sometimes pain.

Lastly, inguinal hernias, which occur when tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles, can affect the bladder and ureters. This can lead to pain or discomfort when using the bathroom.

If you experience persistent or severe pain, you can use our free AI-powered symptom checker to help identify potential causes and determine whether you should consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.

(References)

Grundy L, & Brierley SM. (2018). Cross-organ sensitization between the colon and bladder. American journal of physiology. Gastrointestinal and liver physiology, 29146678.
Marinkovic SP, & Stanton SL. (2004). Incontinence and voiding difficulties associated with prolapse. The Journal of urology, 14767263.
Goldin RR, & Rosen RA. (1975). Effects of inguinal hernias upon the bladder and ureters. Radiology, 1118618.

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