What Are the Causes of Abdominal Pain in a Woman?

Pain is your body's way of telling you that something is wrong. Abdominal pain, which can have many causes, is an example of this warning. Menstrual cramps, ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease, an ectopic pregnancy or endometriosis are all examples of conditions that can cause abdominal pain.

Menstrual Cramps

• Menstrual cramps are due to the body's expulsion of the lining of the uterus during the menstrual period. This abdominal pain is intermittent and occurs just before and during the menstrual period. Treatment includes pain medication, heat application or birth control pills.

Ovarian Cysts

• Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries. They may cause abdominal pain, urinary problems and weight gain. Birth control pills and surgery are common treatments.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

• Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection resulting from certain sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever and abnormal vaginal discharge. Antibiotics are the usual treatment, but surgery may be necessary.

Ectopic Pregnancy

• An ectopic pregnancy is one in which the fertilized egg implants and grows outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tube. Symptoms include abdominal pain, missed menstrual period(s) and nausea. Pregnancy termination is necessary, as the embryo will not survive to term, and the mother will likely die if the pregnancy continues.

Endometriosis

• Endometriosis occurs when the cells that typically line the uterus grow outside of it, in the abdomen. Symptoms include abdominal pain, irregular bleeding and infertility. Treatment includes medication, hormone therapy or surgery.