Drawing pains in the lower abdomen. Why does the stomach pull? Functional causes of pain

A common cause of poor health, bad mood in women is pain in the abdominal region. For what reason does the lower abdomen in women hurt, pull, ache and how to treat it?

Such pains can occur as a result of various pathological conditions that occur in the small pelvis. The uterus and ovaries are usually involved. The reason is sometimes also the physiological phenomena occurring in the female body. To establish an accurate diagnosis of a pathological condition, as a result of which such symptoms appear: pulling, aching pain, you need to understand exactly where it is located, its intensity and regularity.

The main causes of abdominal pain

There are two types of reasons: organic and functional.

Organic include:

• Various diseases of the uterus and ovaries. Cyst, fibroids and other diseases;
• Genital infections;
• The presence of a vaginal spiral;
• The presence of scars due to surgical interventions;
• Inflammation or infection in the kidneys, bladder, intestines;
• Pathological conditions during pregnancy.

All these causes of pain syndrome are a serious reason for seeking medical advice and further treatment.

Functional reasons:

• Algodismenorrhea. A similar phenomenon is associated with pathology in the position of the uterus. The following reasons are also possible: the uterus is not developed, has a high sensitivity, bleeding in the uterus, and other menstrual irregularities.
• Ovulatory Syndrome. During ovulation, women often experience a similar condition, characterized by pain in the pelvis and lower abdomen. The pain can be on the left or right, depending on which ovary the follicle ruptured in. This condition normally disappears after a few hours, at most within a day.
• The uterus is bent. Blood stagnates during menstruation, and the girl feels severe pain in the lower abdomen.

These pains appear due to disorders and poor functioning of the genital organs.

Organic factors

Aching, pulling painful sensations in the lower abdomen can occur due to inflammation, infection, various processes occurring as a result of the deformed state of the genital organs, improper circulation.

Diseases of the genital organs of an organic nature that cause pain:

1. Adnexitis. An inflammatory process that occurs due to the presence of an infection in the uterus and tubes. Pain syndrome begins to manifest itself only in the chronic stage of the disease. Soreness can be felt on the left or right side. There are violations in the work and functioning of the ovaries. The menstrual cycle is disrupted. Blood discharge is possible. There is a possibility of an ectopic pregnancy.
2. Endometritis. Menstrual irregularities, pain in the center of the abdomen and below occur with inflammatory processes in the endometrium. There are cases of the spread of the inflammatory process to the area of \u200b\u200bthe appendages.
3. Endometriosis With endometrial disease, it grows into the tubes of the uterus and ovaries. Occurs due to hormonal disruptions. It is characterized by the soreness of the course of menstruation, their inconstancy. Perhaps the complete cessation of menstruation, the formation of adhesions.
4. Apoplexy of the ovaries. Hemorrhage occurs in the ovarian region. The reasons are unsuccessful sexual intercourse, excessive physical activity. Elimination of bleeding is possible with surgery.
5. Colpitis. In the vaginal mucosa, inflammation occurs. The reasons are streptococcus, fungus, gonococcus, and other infectious diseases. Itching inside the vagina is possible.
6. Myoma. A tumor of a benign nature. It is characterized by the appearance of nodes inside or outside the uterus. Blood circulation is impaired. For these reasons, the lower abdomen and lower back begin to hurt. There is a chance of bleeding in the uterus. The disease is cured through surgery or hormone therapy.

Do not delay treatment if you suspect a disease.

Pathologies of other organs

Other factors and pathologies can cause discomfort in the abdomen.

• Appendicitis. With an ailment, aching and pulling pains may occur. May be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, general malaise, fever. It is necessary to carry out the operation faster to avoid peritonitis.
• Urolithiasis disease. The formed conglomerates prevent urine from passing freely. Pain syndromes in the abdomen appear. It is recommended to deal with the disease promptly.
• Cystitis. The bladder becomes inflamed. The pains are characterized by varying intensity, usually pulling, arising in the lower abdomen. There may be a burning sensation in the area of \u200b\u200bthe bladder. During the bowel movement, cramps are felt.

Similar pains also occur due to diseases of the digestive system. This is the area of \u200b\u200bthe intestines and bladder. An example of a disease is cholecystitis.

Pulling and aching abdominal pains as a result of a woman's pregnancy

If such painful sensations occur together with a delay in menstruation, it may be pregnancy. Together with all the symptoms, the girl does not feel like she used to. There is irritability, at times weakness and fatigue. The woman does not feel sleepy and her mood often changes. Hypersensitivity, breast tenderness may occur.

Experiencing similar symptoms, any woman should consult a gynecologist. The doctor will confirm or deny a possible pregnancy, determine whether the symptoms are normal in this case.

Functional reasons

Functional reasons include when a woman experiences pain associated with her period.

If soreness appears just before the onset of menstruation, then this is called premenstrual syndrome. It can occur due to underdeveloped organs of the reproductive system and disorders in the uterus.

During ovulation, when the follicle ruptures in the female body, the girl feels severe discomfort. The lower abdomen pulls, it aches and there may be bleeding. This condition is considered normal. It goes away on its own, without treatment after a day.

The value of additional symptoms

To determine the cause of the pain, it is necessary to understand the importance of the meaning of the symptoms that accompany the ailment.

• Discharge in the form of blood, which does not occur during the approach of menstruation, they are not associated with menstruation. This symptom gives rise to thinking about diseases of the reproductive system.
• Discharge that smells unnatural. It is accompanied by a rise in temperature, soreness in the lower abdomen. Perhaps these are infectious diseases. Gonorrhea or trichomonellosis.
• Feeling of cuts, possibly burning. If in parallel there is frequent urination, while the lower abdomen hurts, this is a violation of the genitourinary system.
• Nausea, bloating, possible vomiting along with abdominal pain - an infection in the intestines.

If these symptoms appear, you should immediately go to the hospital.

Diagnostics and treatment

To establish the cause of such pain, the doctor prescribes various types of examination:

1. A blood test to detect inflammation
2. Urine tests;
3. Ultrasound of the pelvic area;
4. A blood test for infections in the genitals;
5. Biochemistry blood test.

Prescribing drug treatment can be based on the diagnosis. Usually appoint:

• Antibacterial drugs;
• Hormonal agents;
• Various antispasmodics to relieve pain;
• Surgery if necessary. This may be a curettage of the uterus. Cauterization in the cervix, excision of tumors, cysts are used.

Many diseases in women often develop secretly, without making themselves felt for years. Even such a symptom as pulling pains in the lower abdomen, if it does not bother women much, may not alarm. However, if mild pain occurs constantly, and in a certain place, there are unusual discharge, then a visit to the doctor should not be postponed, waiting for complications. Perhaps the physiological state of a woman plays a role. But sometimes pain is a signal of a serious illness that requires urgent examination and treatment.

Content:

Factors affecting the appearance of pain

Pulling pains occur in the lower abdomen, usually with pathological conditions of the pelvic organs, including the uterus and ovaries (organic causes) or as a result of physiological processes occurring in the woman's body (functional causes). To establish a diagnosis of a pathology, a symptom of which is pulling pain, it is necessary to know its exact location, intensity, whether it is constant or occurs periodically.

Organic Factors Contributing to Pain

These factors include:

• diseases of the uterus and ovaries (endometritis, ovarian cyst, uterine myoma);
• genital infections;
• the use of an intrauterine device;
• scarring after surgery;
• inflammatory and infectious diseases of the kidneys, urinary bladder (cystitis, pyelonephritis), as well as intestines;
• pathology during pregnancy.

Functional causes of lower abdominal pain

In this case, pulling pains appear in the lower abdomen due to dysfunction of the genital organs:

1. Algodismenorrhea (a condition associated with an abnormal position or underdevelopment of the uterus, increased sensitivity), dysfunctional uterine bleeding and other menstrual disorders.
2. Ovulatory Syndrome. Aching pain in the lower abdomen during ovulation disturbs the woman for several hours after the follicle breaks and the egg leaves it. It can be on any one side (depending on which ovary, right or left, is involved in the process). Sometimes it bothers both sides at the same time. This happens when both ovaries produce eggs. In this case, the onset of multiple pregnancy is possible.
3. Bending of the uterus, which causes stagnation of menstrual blood.

Video: Causes of lower abdominal pain. Inadmissibility of self-medication

Organic factors

Aching pain in women can become a manifestation of inflammatory, infectious diseases or processes associated with deformation of organ tissues, impaired blood circulation.

Diseases of the reproductive organs

Adnexitis (salpingo-oophoritis). Inflammation occurs due to the entry of various infections into the uterus, its tubes and ovaries. Moreover, a dull aching pain in the lower abdomen appears when it becomes chronic. Only one ovary or both can be affected. Accordingly, the pain occurs on the left, right or on both sides at once. The ovaries cease to function normally, which is reflected in various irregularities in the menstrual cycle. In addition, discharge appears with impurities of pus or blood, the woman's temperature rises. Full maturation of the egg becomes impossible, obstruction of the tubes occurs. A woman can become sterile. Ectopic pregnancy is possible.

Endometritis. Menstrual disorders, pain in the central part of the abdomen, below appear due to inflammation of the endometrium, the mucous membrane of the uterus, if the process becomes chronic. In this case, inflammation can easily spread to the appendages.

Endometriosis - overgrowth of the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) into the adjacent parts of the uterus (tubes, neck), ovaries and even the intestines. It occurs, as a rule, as a result of hormonal disorders in the body. In addition to dull, constant pain in the lower abdomen, women experience painful periods of an irregular nature. Heavy bleeding, brown discharge in addition to menstruation is possible. Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) may occur. Adhesions or complete overgrowth of the fallopian tubes are formed, which leads to infertility, ectopic pregnancy. Usually, pulling pains in the groin or pubic area precede menstruation, become stronger during menstruation.

Ovarian apoplexy - hemorrhage in the ovary, which occurs when tissue ruptures, damage to small vessels. Usually seen with cystic cavities. It can be triggered by sexual intercourse or physical activity. The hemorrhage spreads to the peritoneal region. Aching pain below, in the ovary region, is intense. Bleeding can be eliminated only by surgery.

Polycystic ovary - the appearance of cysts in the ovary that disrupt their normal functioning. In this case, pulling pains in the back, lower abdomen, menstrual irregularities, hormonal imbalance, obesity occur. The nature of the abdominal pain can change if the cyst leg is twisted (which is possible when bending, turning the body, physical exertion). If the twisting is small (up to 90 °), then the pain may be aching due to impaired circulation. With complete twisting, the blood supply to the cyst area stops. Due to tissue necrosis, nausea, vomiting, and fever occur. Painful sensations in the ovarian area become sharp, spasmodic. Urgent removal of the cyst is required.

Colpitis - inflammation of the mucous membrane covering the vagina. The causative agents are streptococci, gonococci, Trichomonas, fungi and other types of infection. The mucous membrane becomes thinner, papillae and bubbles appear on the surface, which is the cause of pulling pains in the lower abdomen, profuse leucorrhoea, itching in the vagina.

Myoma - a benign tumor. Single or multiple nodules of various sizes appear both outside and inside the uterus. With an increase in the tumor, it begins to squeeze the nearby vessels, causing a violation of the blood supply. Because of this, there is heaviness, discomfort in the lower abdomen, lower back. Uterine bleeding may occur. The complications of this disease are premature birth, possibly infertility. The tumor is hormone dependent. To eliminate it, hormone therapy or surgery is used.

Video: Pain in the lower abdomen with inflammation of the fallopian tubes

Pathologies in other organs

Appendicitis. In its chronic form, it causes aching pains that are felt in the stomach. Concomitant symptoms are nausea, vomiting, weakness, fever. An urgent operation is required, since the inflamed appendix may burst, and the ingress of pus into the peritoneum leads to peritonitis.

Urolithiasis disease. As a result of the deposition of various salts in the ureters, kidneys or bladder, conglomerates are formed that impede the passage of urine. In this case, there may be both pulling dull pains in the lower abdomen, and sharp, very strong in the lower back and groin area. Stones are removed medically or surgically.

Cystitis - inflammation of the bladder. With this disease, there are pulling pains of varying intensity in the lower abdomen, burning in the bladder, and cramps during urination. In women, cystitis, as a rule, accompanies infectious inflammatory processes in the genitals, since, due to the peculiarities of the anatomical structure of the genitourinary system, the infection spreads easily.

Note: Aching pain in the lower abdomen can also be felt in diseases of the digestive system (intestines, gallbladder). For example, with cholecystitis, pain occurs in the hypochondrium, as well as in the lower abdomen.

Pulling pain during pregnancy

They can occur at different stages of pregnancy. If aching pain occurs for up to 22 weeks, accompanied by bloody discharge, then the cause is the threat of miscarriage. The doctor, having assessed the woman's condition, prescribes treatment aimed at maintaining the pregnancy. The threat of interruption arises due to an increase in the tone of the uterus, the presence of scars on it after previous cauterization or curettage, hormonal disorders. A woman is recommended bed rest, treatment with antispasmodics and hormonal drugs.

The initiator of lower abdominal pain in women during pregnancy may be placental abruption in less than 37 weeks. In this case, not only pain appears, but also spotting, as well as signs of internal bleeding (dizziness, nausea, pallor, headache). In this case, a cesarean section is performed, otherwise the child may die from hypoxia.

Mild pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy is normal and is caused by stretching of the muscles, an increase in the size of the uterus, and the weight of the fetus. If there is a sharp intensifying pain with fever, bleeding, this may indicate the presence of an ectopic pregnancy, uterine rupture and other complications.

Video: Causes of pain in the lower abdomen

Functional reasons

These include situations in which pain occurs due to different periods of the menstrual cycle.

Lower abdominal pain associated with menstruation

Pulling pain in the groin that occurs before menstruation is usually associated with premenstrual syndrome (the influence of hormones on the nervous system, increased sensitivity, vegetative-vascular disorders). The cause of unpleasant sensations can be underdevelopment of the genitals (especially in young girls), changes in the shape of the uterus after abortion, childbirth, operations.

If a woman has endometrial hyperplasia or inflammatory diseases of the uterus, then aching pains may remain after menstruation. At this time, the growth of cystic formations occurs, associated with a change hormonal background.

Video: Pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation

Painful sensations during ovulation

At the time of ovulation (rupture of the follicle and the release of an egg from it), women may feel weak pulling pains in the lower abdomen and the appearance of traces of blood. Such symptoms are normal, disappear after 1-2 days.

Significance of accompanying symptoms

When determining the cause of pain, the accompanying symptoms are of great importance:

1. Bloody or other discharge that occurs in the middle of the cycle that is not related to menstruation indicates the presence of inflammatory diseases of the internal genital organs (endometritis, salpingo-oophoritis).
2. Abundant colored discharge with an unpleasant odor, fever combined with pain in the lower abdomen are characteristic of infectious diseases of the genital organs (trichomonellosis, gonorrhea and others).
3. Cramps, burning sensation, frequent urination, combined with pain in the lower abdomen, indicate the presence of pathologies in the urinary system.
4. Nausea, vomiting, bloating, pulling pains are signs of intestinal infections.
5. With appendicitis, pain is usually localized in the lower right abdomen.

Diagnostics and treatment

To establish the cause of pulling pains, an examination is usually prescribed by the following methods:

• a general analysis for leukocytes and blood clotting, which allows you to detect the presence of inflammatory processes, to suggest the cause of bleeding;
• urine analysis for leukocytes, protein and bacteria;
• Ultrasound of the small pelvis;
• cytological examination of mucus from the vagina and cervix (smear);
• blood tests for latent genital infections (chlamydia, gonococcus, mycoplasma, Candida fungi and others);
• biochemical blood test for antibodies to various infectious agents.

Depending on the place of localization of pain, their nature and assumptions about the disease, other examination methods are used: tissue biopsy, colposcopic examination of the uterus. When tumors are detected, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used.

After clarifying the diagnosis, if necessary, the doctor prescribes medications with antibacterial, hormonal or antispasmodic action. In some cases, only surgical operation helps to eliminate pain (curettage of the uterus, cauterization of the cervix, removal of tumors, cystic formations).

Warning: If there is a pulling pain in the lower abdomen, self-treatment is unacceptable, as it can cause great harm to health. The hot water bottle is strictly contraindicated in inflammatory diseases, appendicitis, as this leads to peritonitis, blood poisoning. Any delay with increased pain in the lower abdomen, the appearance of signs of body poisoning or internal bleeding can be life-threatening. They occur with an ectopic pregnancy, rupture of the uterus, damage to ovarian tissue, as well as kidney disease.

Drawing pains in the lower abdomen and back are a widespread complaint. They occur more often in women than in men. This is due to the difference in the anatomical location and structure of the genitals. The causes of pain can be caused by a large number of diseases not only of the internal organs located in this area, but also of the musculoskeletal system, kidneys, etc. Due to the variety of conditions that provoke pulling pains, if they occur, it is necessary to conduct a thorough examination for establishing a diagnosis.

What diseases can lead to pulling pain?

Most often, the cause of the appearance of pulling pain in the lower back and lower third of the abdomen is diseases of the organs that are located in this area or border on it. These include:

• Pathology of the urinary system. These pains can capture the lumbar region, spread to the lower abdomen. They are accompanied by frequent urination, the appearance of impurities in the urine (blood and mucus). May appear against the background of an increase in body temperature.
• Digestive system pathologies. The causes of such pain can be disorders of the large and small intestine, pancreas, appendicular process. In this regard, there are complaints of stool disturbance (constipation, diarrhea or their alternation), flatulence, increased excretion of gases, an unpleasant taste in the mouth, a change in taste preferences and hyperthermia.
• Diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Depending on the nature of the pathology, various additional complaints will be observed. In osteoporosis, there is a change in posture, pain when tapping on the vertebrae, the appearance of folds on the sides of the abdomen, etc. When an oncological pathology occurs, signs of intoxication, weight loss, fever, changes in general blood count indicators are revealed.
• Nervous system pathologies. These include ganglioneuromas, chronic pelvic pain syndrome, and others.

Drawing pains in the lower abdomen in women

The pains that bother women can be caused by diseases and conditions caused by the peculiarities of the reproductive system. They depend on the stage of the menstrual cycle, on the presence of pregnancy and inflammatory processes. The most characteristic is the appearance of pulling pains in the lower third of the abdomen if the following conditions develop:

• Early pregnancy. During this period, such pains can serve as a sign of a normal pregnancy and are observed constantly. In this case, they are caused by softening of the ligaments, displacement of internal organs and hormonal changes. It pulls not only the stomach, but also the lower back. But the same pain can be observed against the background of the threat of termination of pregnancy. This is especially true with the appearance of spotting from the vagina. It is not possible to independently identify the cause of the pain. It is necessary to seek medical attention from a doctor.
• Second trimester of pregnancy. During this period, pulling pains in the lower abdomen can be a sign of health problems from the fetus and a pregnant woman, overwork. To receive adequate treatment, you must urgently consult a doctor.
• Late pregnancy. Pulling pains can be observed from the compression of the internal organs by the pregnant uterus. They are also the harbingers of the approaching birth.
• Ovarian cyst. Pulling pains bother as the cyst grows. They can worsen during or after intercourse.
• Inflammatory diseases of the female reproductive system. Pulling pain in the abdomen on one side or in the suprapubic region may be the result of a woman having an infectious process in the genitals. They often occur after abortion or unprotected intercourse with a new partner. They may be accompanied by profuse vaginal discharge with discoloration and odor (white, yellow, green, offensive), fever, and itching in the perineum.

Pulling pain in men

Pathological changes in the seminal vesicles and the prostate gland can lead to the appearance of pulling pains in the lower abdomen and in the lumbar region. Due to their location near the bladder and rectum, sensations spread to these organs. In this regard, there may be complaints from their side: increased urination, diarrhea, etc. Diseases of the male reproductive system, leading to the occurrence of pulling pains:

• Prostatitis. In the chronic form of this disease, there is constant pain in the perineum, sacral region, above the pubis, combined with a feeling of heaviness and squeezing. During an exacerbation, there may be an increase in body temperature and increased urination. The disease leads to inadequate treatment of acute infectious processes (prostatitis, etc.), physical inactivity, disturbances in the sexual sphere, prolonged shaking when riding in a sitting position. In the absence of therapy, the disease can lead to erectile dysfunction and cerebrasthenic syndrome.
• Vesiculitis. With inflammation of paired organs - seminal vesicles, which are located to the right and left of the prostate, a pulling pain appears in the suprapubic region, along the groin fold. Pain may worsen with filling of the bladder and ejaculation. There is an increase in sexual excitability (frequent emission and ejaculation). The disease is a consequence of urethritis, epididymitis or other inflammatory diseases.
• Oncological diseases. The early stages of prostate cancer may be asymptomatic or masked by chronic prostatitis. The pain may even subside during the course of the disease as the area of \u200b\u200bdistribution increases. Later, its intensity increases. It starts to hurt so much that it can resemble sciatica. There may be an increase in temperature and signs of intoxication.

What to do if there is a pulling pain in the lower abdomen and lower back?

Pain serves as a signal that the body is experiencing processes that require attention. More than 30 diseases can be the reasons, so it is impossible to make a diagnosis on your own. When you go to the doctor, it will become clear why the lower abdomen is pulling, what was the impetus for the disease and what means can be used to stop the pain. Regardless of the time period when pulling pains appeared, the professional advice of a doctor will help to establish the cause and get adequate treatment. It must be remembered that a person's life can depend on the timeliness of seeking medical help.

Drawing pain in the lower abdomen in women very often occurs during pregnancy, menstruation or through gynecological diseases.

1. Pulls the lower abdomen during pregnancy

In women, during pregnancy, the stomach pulls, as a rule, in the early and late stages. In the first weeks, the stomach may hurt due to the increase in the size of the uterus. The muscles stretch as the fetus grows, so pain and discomfort occurs.

If the lower abdomen does not hurt much and passes quickly, and pathological symptoms are not observed, then usually you do not need to panic. But when you feel dizzy during pain, bloody discharge comes out of the vagina, you feel weakness, nausea, fever, you need to urgently consult a doctor! There is a risk of miscarriage, premature birth and ectopic pregnancy.

Solutions to the problem:

1. For mild and short-term pain, you can take a no-shpa pill, green tea, also lie on your bed and try to rest.
2. If pulling pain occurs often and radiates to the left or right side, then it is recommended to visit a doctor who will refer you to an ultrasound scan.
3. Also, pain in the lower abdomen can be a symptom of acute appendicitis, which is accompanied by vomiting and nausea. In this case, it is necessary to carry out an operation that will be completely safe for the child.
4. Digestive problems often cause lingering pain in the lower abdomen. Ask your gynecologist to create a unique diet for you.
5. Discomfort in the lower abdomen can be felt at 16-24 weeks of pregnancy. Typically, this is due to spasms and sprains of the round ligament. For a solution, you can drink a soothing tea, or lie on the couch to relax.

2.Pulls the lower abdomen during menstruation

Lower abdominal pain that bothers you on the days of your period may indicate a medical condition or other problem. As a rule, the cause of pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation is:

• insufficiency of the luteal phase;
• insufficient level of endogenous opiates;
• high content of prostaglandins;
• dysmenorrhea and others.

Solutions to the problem:

1. In case of severe pain and feeling unwell, you should consult a gynecologist. He will conduct examinations and give special instructions.
2. Also quit smoking and other bad habits. Take a warm bath or shower for no more than 15 minutes. In addition, a gentle massage can be done to help relieve tension in the abdominal area.

3. Drawing pain in the lower abdomen in the middle of the menstrual cycle

Often the cause of discomfort and pain is the cause of ovulation. This suggests that the maturing follicle stretches the walls of the ovary. If the follicle bursts, the fluid from it irritates the uterus, and it begins to contract, so you feel a pulling pain in the abdomen.

Solutions to the problem:

1. As a rule, such pains last 1-3 days and do not require special attention. If you are very worried, you can go to the doctor for examination. Also take a no-shpa pill and try to relax while lying in bed.
2. If pain occurs after ovulation, it is necessary to visit a gynecologist. Discomfort and pain can indicate ovarian inflammation or other medical conditions.

4. Stomach hurts and pulls after intercourse

The reason for this pain may be intense sex when your partner reaches the cervix. In this case, you need to choose more comfortable postures, and also ask your partner to be much more careful.

In addition, the symptom may indicate various infectious and inflammatory diseases: gonorrhea, bacterial vaginosis, chlamydia, endometriosis, and others. They are usually accompanied by itching, burning, unpleasant discharge, urinary problems and other warning signs.

Solutions to the problem:

1. It is recommended that you seek help from your gynecologist so that he can pinpoint the cause of your pain and discomfort and then prescribe treatment for you.

Why pulls the lower abdomen in men

Discomfort and pain in the lower abdomen may indicate diseases of the male reproductive system. In many cases, prostatitis or genital infections are the cause.

Pulls the stomach with prostatitis and genital infections

Chronic prostatitis is the most common cause of lingering pain in the lower abdomen in men. Inflammatory pain can affect the perineum, rectum, or genitals. The signs are fever, urinary disorders and others.

Gynecologists believe that lower abdominal pain in women is the most common reason for treatment. However, by the nature of the symptom, it is not immediately possible to name the reason with certainty. Most often, an examination with palpation of the internal genital organs is necessary. Sometimes a consultation with a surgeon or neurologist is required.

The lower abdomen reflects the manifestations of physiological changes and diseases of both the reproductive organs and the bladder and intestines. Correct treatment can only be prescribed after a complete examination.

The mechanism of pain

The causes of pain in the lower abdomen in women may be associated with changes in a dense (parenchymal) organ, such as the ovaries, or due to hollow formations (bladder, fallopian tubes, uterus, intestines). Accordingly, the mechanism of pain syndrome is different.

Diseases of the ovaries are accompanied by an enlargement of the organ, stretching of the capsule supplied with nerve painful endings. In the hollow organs, the main role is played by spastic contraction of the muscle layer or its hyperextension (atony).

Therefore, in the first version, the nature of the pain is described by the patient as aching, dull, constant, gradually increasing as the appendages increase. And in the second - more often as cramping, periodic, aggravated by excitement, movements, physical exertion. Bursting pains cause a rapid growth in the size of the organ due to edema, inflammation.

With a slow increase, women experience a dull heaviness, pressure in the pathology zone. Another mechanism of pain syndrome is associated with adhesions and overstretching of the surrounding ligaments. Adhesions form as a result of chronic inflammation with peritoneal effusion, as a complication after surgery.

Adhesions do not have nerve endings, they consist of scar tissue, but, when soldered to the hollow organs, they cause their displacement, narrowing of the lumen

Adhesion pains accompany intestinal peristalsis, sex life, bowel movement. The ligamentous apparatus fixes muscles and organs in a sedentary state. A sprain of the internal ligaments is felt as a pulling pain.

Another variant of pain causes irritation of the sheets of the peritoneum and local inflammation. At the same time, the pains are quite strong, but they are constantly in one place, they do not radiate anywhere. If a girl has a pain in the lower abdomen, then this, in the absence of signs of inflammation, is associated with an increased tone and tension of the uterus. The pain is combined with the period of menstruation (algomenorrhea).

The nature of the pain syndrome is felt and tolerated in different ways by women at a young and mature age, who have given birth and have not given birth. The pain threshold of sensitivity allows some to endure acute pain, while others are haunted if they occasionally ache in their side. Subjective assessment is complemented by other symptoms and examination results. Consider what may hurt in this area.

Pain emanating from the digestive system

Pain in the lower abdomen in the body of both women and men can occur due to disruption of the intestines. On the right is the projection of the appendix, the ileocecal angle formed by the junction of the jejunum and cecum.

This is where an appendix, called the appendix, departs. The wide and short cecum descends below the iliac crest of the pelvic bone. The skinny one lies behind her. In the left iliac region lies the sigmoid and straight part of the large intestine.

Attack of appendicitis

Appendicitis is a paroxysmal inflammatory disease with a local lesion of the appendix. In a chronic course, it spreads to adjacent sections of the intestine and the adjacent part of the peritoneum.

The disease can be caused by:

• chronic indigestion with stagnation inside the appendix;
• adhesive changes in the abdominal cavity, adhesions with other organs;
• intestinal atony with prolonged constipation;
• the specific action of infection in typhoid fever, tuberculosis;
• trauma to the abdomen;
• violation of patency in case of eating nuts, husk of seeds;
• abnormal structure.

Exit from the appendix may be clogged with fecal calculus

The classic picture begins with pain in the stomach, with fever, vomiting. Reminiscent of food poisoning. After 2–3 hours, the pain “descends” into the right iliac region and intensifies to a pronounced attack. Possible irradiation from the bottom up to the right hypochondrium, to the navel, lower back, anus.

Normally, the appendix has a different position, which makes diagnosis difficult. An upward deviation is characteristic of an attack in a pregnant woman. Usually, against the background of pain, local pain is observed on palpation, tension of the abdominal muscles. Stool is disturbed (diarrhea or constipation).

If the pain becomes pulsating, "jerking", then a suppurative process (phlegmonous or gangrenous appendicitis) should be expected. There are situations with moderate dull pain that women endure without seeking medical help.

The disease does not disappear, but becomes chronic. A restrictive "bag" of adhesions is formed around the process. It delays the formation of diffuse peritonitis. The pains recur with varying intensity. Treatment is only surgical.

Crohn's disease

The disease has no exact cause. Pathological changes are expressed in the form of areas of granulomatous (lumpy) inflammation, alternating with normal intestinal tissue. The caecum area is one of the most common localization.

Inflammation is characterized by a through lesion of the wall, the formation of rough cracks, ulcers, fistulous passages between organs, cicatricial and suppurative processes. The disease continues for a long time with relapses even after 20 years.

The tendency to the disease of women has been established:

• with a burdened family history (close relatives are sick);
• long "experience" of smoking and alcoholism;
• low immunity as a result of chronic infectious diseases.

Severe cramping pains in the lower abdomen on the right with ileitis indicate an active process. They intensify after eating, excitement. They can have a permanent bursting character. In addition, patients are worried about:

• bloating;
• frequent loose stools (possibly mixed with pus and blood);
• nausea and vomiting;
• poor appetite, weight loss;
• slight temperature;
• weakness.

Timely identification and treatment can achieve a long remission period.

Nonspecific ulcerative colitis

The disease begins with the rectum and "rises" further along the large intestine. The nature of the inflammation remains unclear. Ulceration of the mucous membrane does not extend to the deep layers of the wall. More often women with low immunity are ill, against the background of long-term use of toxic drugs, with dysfunctional heredity.

Main signs:

• cramping pains in the left iliac region and side, aggravation associated with food, defecation, physical activity;
• tendency to diarrhea;
• impurities of pus, mucus and blood in the feces;
• moderate increase in temperature;
• weight loss, weakness.

The most common complication is intestinal bleeding. The therapy uses strong anti-inflammatory drugs, hormones. An operation may be necessary in an emergency.

Diverticulosis

The disease is caused by a disturbed structure of the intestinal wall. Inflamed saccular protrusions become the cause of pulling pain in the lower abdomen. They are formed:

• in elderly women with atony and a tendency to constipation;
• with a lack of water and fiber intake;
• in obese people with low physical activity;
• in the presence of anomalies in the development of the intestinal wall;
• with a pronounced atherosclerotic process in the arteries of the abdominal cavity with intestinal atrophy.

The most common localization of diverticula is the sigmoid colon

Diverticula can give intermittent aching pain in the area of \u200b\u200bprojection onto the abdominal wall. Severe spasms occur with inflammation of these formations, twisting, which forms a partial bowel obstruction. The therapy includes intense anti-inflammatory drugs. With the threat of peritonitis and obstruction, an operation is performed to remove the diverticula.

Colon cancer

Adenocarcinoma most often affects the sigmoid and rectum, therefore, differential diagnosis is carried out when it is not clear why the lower abdomen hurts in women in the left iliac region. It is possible to detect cancer at an early stage only by indirect signs, since it does not give severe pain.

Patients go to the doctor with complaints:

• constipation;
• bloating;
• incomprehensible temperature;
• weight loss.

Against the background of tumor growth, constant pains appear in the left iliac region and in the flank of a dull nature, independent of nutrition and physical activity. Therapy includes the use of a combination of cytostatics with irradiation of the cancer area and nearby lymph nodes. The question of surgical treatment and the amount of intervention is decided by a commission.

Pain and impaired urination

Inflammation of the bladder and urethra (cystitis and urethritis) is more common among women than among men. This is due to the peculiarity of the structure and location: the urethral canal is short, wide, and lies close to the anus and vagina.

Infection is caused by E. coli, a disturbed flora of the vagina (especially in sexually transmitted diseases)

If a woman's lower abdomen hurts at the same time as cuts during urination, frequent urge, then you should think about inflammation in the lower urinary tract. Usually pains are pulling in nature, constant, exhausting the patient, causing insomnia.

Severe inflammation is accompanied by flakes of mucus in the urine, bloody streaks. If the pain is radiated to the right or left side of the lower back, pyelonephritis should be excluded. Inflammation of the renal pelvis is also accompanied by dysuria, a burning sensation in the very lower abdomen.

Treatment is usually long. Combines phytopreparations that flush the bladder, the use of a significant volume of liquid and antibacterial agents. Not without consulting a gynecologist. Often, the inflammation of the genitals and the bladder is often combined and supported each other.

Pain with violations in the genital area

Gynecologists divide pain in the lower abdomen in patients into functional (physiological) and organic. Functional reasons are caused by temporary underdevelopment of the genitals in girls, due to menstruation, pregnancy. They are associated with anxiety, hypothermia, the onset of sexual activity.

Organic causes always manifest themselves in the acute or chronic course of the pathology of the uterus, appendages. Pains are of a different nature, may be accompanied by uterine bleeding, vaginal discharge.

Differences between physiological and organic pains:

• lack of a clear connection with the previous action, spontaneous onset and disappearance;
• short-term nature;
• moderate intensity;
• comparatively satisfactory health.

Secondary dysmenorrhea, depending on the pathology of the uterus and appendages, must be distinguished from physiological reasons.

Physiological pain in women

To figure out why a girl has a stomach ache below before and during each menstruation, gynecologists will need to study the hormonal background, the patient's regimen. Primary algomenorrhea - associated with functional disorders caused by the underdevelopment of the endocrine and nervous systems.

In girls, the production of prostaglandins, estrogens, which increase the contractions of the uterus, increases. It is often observed with overload in studies, low physical activity, improper diet (coffee, sandwiches, chips), with emotional stress.

In 75% of cases, the diagnosis is defined as "premenstrual syndrome". In addition to pain, a few days before the period of menstruation, there are:

• headache and nausea;
• dizziness and fainting;
• vomiting;
• the mammary glands swell and hurt.

During pregnancy, painful sensations are caused by stretching of the ligamentous apparatus. Most often they concern primiparous women over the age of 25 with poor physical fitness.

It is impossible to exclude the occurrence of an acute illness or exacerbation of a chronic one against the background of pregnancy, therefore every expectant mother is obliged to carefully monitor her health and inform the doctor about any changes.

Pain during ovulation - occurs on the 14-15th day of the normal menstrual cycle. They last for several hours or days. Women find regular pulling pains in the lower abdomen, intensified during intercourse. They are caused by hormonal changes with increased blood flow to the ovary. Usually one-sided. Women require observation by a gynecologist.

Pain in the pathology of the genital organs in women

Organic pains, depending on pathological changes in the uterus and appendages, are provoked by: hypothermia, hard physical work, sports, increased nervous tension, the use of intrauterine contraceptives.

Adenomatosis (endometriosis) - caused by the proliferation of epithelium from the inner layer of the uterus into the muscle. Most affected are nulliparous women over 30 and infertile. Symptoms are associated with constant pulling pain above the pubis, prolonged menstrual bleeding, brown vaginal discharge.

The epithelium forms "pockets". Menstrual blood enters them and presses on the surrounding tissue. Therefore, during menstruation, the pain intensifies, radiating to the groin and lower back.

For therapy, hormonal drugs are used.

During pregnancy, a woman with endometriosis is constantly monitored to exclude placental rejection

Inflammatory diseases (endometritis, adnexitis) - accompanied by bursting or cramping constant pain. With adnexitis (inflammation of the ovary), the pain is one-sided. Irradiation to the sacrum, lower back is observed, the general condition worsens.

The risk of inflammation is highest in women:

• undergone diagnostic curettage and abortion;
• refusing a long course of therapy.

Additional features include:

• weakness, dizziness;
• muscle pain;
• temperature increase;
• unpleasant odor from vaginal discharge due to the admixture of pus;
• insomnia;
• irritability.

In 60% of women, inflammation is caused by a sexually transmitted infection. In treatment, it is necessary to provide for a temporary cessation of sexual intercourse and examination of the partner.

Congenital and acquired anomalies - in girls, they are detected during a painful first menstruation (infection of the vagina, cervix). The accumulation of blood in the cavity causes expansion and constant pain. In adult women, blood retention is facilitated by the bending of the uterus (retrodeviation), adhesion in the cavity (synechia).

Girls need to be shown to a gynecologist and urgently examined. For women, special exercises are selected, if it is impossible to correct the situation, an operation is performed.

Genital tumors in women - have a benign growth and malignant course. The benign include cysts, fibroids. As they grow, they stretch the organ and cause bursting pains. At the same time, the mechanism involves stretching of ligaments, adhesions (in chronic inflammation).

Manifestations can wear a picture of an acute attack with torsion of the cyst, rupture. In this case, the pain is one-sided, accompanied by dizziness and nausea, shock is possible. With fibroids, severe uterine bleeding, signs of anemia are added to the pain.

Malignant tumors of the appendages are accompanied by bilateral localization, intensity in the II – III stage. Signs of cancer intoxication appear:

• nausea;
• lack of appetite;
• losing weight;
• hormonal disorders;
• weakness.

Unilateral pain is caused by cancer of the fallopian tube. Early symptoms include intermittent, profuse, watery discharge. Uterine sarcoma is detected during examination for uterine bleeding. The tumor is characterized by rapid growth, increased pain and metastasis.

Tubal pregnancy with rupture - accompanied by sudden pain syndrome on one side of the abdomen, severe dizziness, loss of consciousness is possible caused by internal bleeding. The woman has a delay in menstruation, secondary signs of pregnancy.

Why is a gynecologist's examination required?

For any pain in the lower abdomen in women, specialists should exclude changes in the genitals. Therefore, women are referred to a consultation, and a doctor looks at the hospital on the spot.

Vaginal examination is performed with two hands, thus, the internal genital structures are clamped between the fingers, their size, density is determined, and the left and right ovaries are compared

With inflammation of the appendages, palpation is sharply painful on the one hand, one of the organs is enlarged, the tissue is pasty. Endometritis is indicated by an enlarged and softened uterus, pain on palpation. When the fallopian tube ruptures with internal bleeding, a bulging of the posterior fornix of the vagina is revealed.

Assessment of the condition of girls and young women with pain in the lower abdomen is important for resolving the issue of preparing for conception, the course of pregnancy, and the birth of healthy offspring. For older women, the timely exclusion of pathology guarantees the ability to work and an active life after menopause.