What could be the cause of my lower abdominal pain?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Lower abdominal pain is discomfort felt below the belly button and can range from mild to severe. Common causes include digestive issues (such as gas, constipation, or irritable bowel syndrome), urinary tract infections, menstrual cramps, appendicitis, hernias, or problems with reproductive organs. Because the lower abdomen contains many vital organs, identifying the exact cause often requires a medical evaluation.

Since symptoms can overlap across many conditions—some minor, others serious—it's smart to get clarity before deciding on next steps. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you understand possible causes based on your specific symptoms, assess urgency, and guide you toward the right type of care. It takes just a few minutes and could save you time, worry, and unnecessary guesswork.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn what’s causing lower abdominal pain Discover if lower abdominal pain needs care Find out if lower belly pain is serious See OTC options for lower abdominal pain Find a doctor for abdominal pain Understand home remedies for lower abdominal pain Check possible causes of your abdominal pain

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Explanation

Lower abdominal pain can have different causes, and understanding them can help in finding the right treatment.

Common Causes:

Digestive Issues: Problems like constipation or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can cause pain.
Infections: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) or stomach infections might lead to discomfort.
Organ Problems: Issues with organs like the appendix or gallbladder can cause pain.

For Women:

Gynecological issues, such as ovarian cysts or endometriosis, can also be a reason for pain.

Important Note:

If you have severe pain or other symptoms like fever or vomiting, it's important to see a doctor. To help identify what might be causing your symptoms, you can start by taking a free symptom checker test before consulting with a healthcare professional.

(References)

Carlberg DJ, Lee SD, & Dubin JS. (2016). Lower Abdominal Pain. Emergency medicine clinics of North America, 27133242.
Yew KS, George MK, & Allred HB. (2023). Acute Abdominal Pain in Adults: Evaluation and Diagnosis. American family physician, 37327158.
Flock F, & Sauer G. (2004). [Gynecological aspects of pain in the lower abdomen]. MMW Fortschritte der Medizin, 15357478.

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