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Reasons for Lower Stomach Pain

There are many reasons for lower stomach pain, also referred to as pelvic pain or lower abdominal pain. The most common reasons stem from the urinary system, intestines and female reproductive organs. Some of the reasons for lower stomach pain are serious, and others aren't serious and can be easily treated.

  1. Kidney Stones

    • Kidney stones can be a reason of lower stomach pain. In some cases, the pain can be quite severe. When a kidney stone is the cause of lower stomach pain, the pain typically starts on one side of the lower back and travels to the lower stomach area. A kidney stone develops into a hard mass when the chemicals that prevent these crystals from forming are not doing their job.

    Infections

    • Urinary tract infections can lead to lower stomach pain. The urinary tract also includes the kidneys and bladder. A urinary tract infection occurs when digestive tract bacteria makes its way into the urinary system, where the bacteria will multiply, resulting in infection. If one of the kidneys is infected, the pain will originate on one side of the lower back and then travel to the lower stomach area. When the infection is affecting the bladder, it will originate and remain in the lower stomach area near the belly button.

    Constipation and Diarrhea

    • Both constipation and diarrhea can cause lower stomach pain. Those experiencing lower stomach pain due to these causes often experience it in waves, meaning it is not constant. However, the waves of pain can be quite severe. Diarrhea is described as a watery or loose bowel movement. Constipation is defined as an absence of bowel movements.

    Irritable Bowel Syndrome

    • Lower stomach pain can be caused by a medical condition called irritable bowel syndrome. This condition affects the bowels and intestines and is most commonly characterized by a combination of constipation, diarrhea, cramping, bloating and lower stomach pain. Though irritable bowel syndrome can be difficult to handle, it does not lead to any permanent damage.

    Endometriosis

    • Endometriosis can be a reason for lower stomach pain. This condition affects the female reproductive organs, especially the uterus. Endometriosis occurs when the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. It may build up on the uterus or spread to the other female reproductive organs such as the ovaries or fallopian tubes. In more severe cases, this lining may begin to grow on other organs located in the lower stomach area.

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