What Could a Painful Lump in the Lower Abdomen Mean for a Female?

When you find a painful lump in your lower abdomen, there are several possibilities to consider. One common cause is an ovarian cyst, which is a fluid-filled sac that can form on the ovary. Sometimes these cysts can grow large or become twisted (ovarian torsion), leading to significant pain. In some reported cases, a giant abdominal cyst has been identified in young women, and these masses can cause discomfort that needs prompt evaluation. Another possibility is an inflammatory mass, such as an abscess resulting from an infection like pelvic inflammatory disease. Additionally, certain hernias, where internal tissues push through a weakened spot in the abdominal wall, could also present as a painful lump in the lower abdomen. Because these causes vary in severity and treatment, it's important to have any new, painful lump evaluated by your healthcare provider. They will likely perform a physical examination and may order imaging studies—like an ultrasound or CT scan—so they can determine the exact cause and recommend appropriate management to help relieve your pain and address the underlying issue.