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The lower abdomen hurts, pulling pain. Drawing pains in the lower abdomen in women: causes and diagnosis

The lower abdomen hurts, pulling pain. Drawing pains in the lower abdomen in women: causes and diagnosis

Pain syndrome is an indicator of a disorder present in the body. The field of gynecology is no exception. Women experience discomfort against the background of inflammation, infection or tumor process, damage. Only a doctor is able to find out the cause of the deterioration of well-being. Only after the prescribed examination and the results obtained, it becomes clear what to do if a woman’s lower abdomen hurts, how to help her and what methods to stop the underlying pathology.

In gynecological practice, one type of pain syndrome can manifest over a dozen pathologies. They are similar in clinical manifestations, sometimes necessitating the use of an analgesic to improve the condition.

The most common cause of discomfort in the lower abdomen in women is associated with menstruation. The painful period is complicated by the pressure of the bladder on the uterus. Potentially aggravate the patient's condition:

being in a stressful environment
empty stomach cramps
drinking alcohol or strong coffee on an empty stomach
intimacy
weight lifting
insomnia due to discomfort

Discomfort is felt with overcrowding, constipation, and subsequent complications (eg, colonic diverticulosis). Abdominal pain in women in the 2nd-3rd trimester of pregnancy is due to stretching of the abdominal muscles. The factors that provoke pain in the lower abdomen include pathologies of the genitourinary system, pelvic organs, and malignant neoplasms.

These include inflammation of the uterus, ovaries, vagina, fallopian tubes. Especially dangerous conditions are included in the definition of "acute abdomen".

The following pathologies cause pain and serious health consequences:

Ovarian cyst. Intra-abdominal rupture of this neoplasm is accompanied by unbearable pain, often with loss of consciousness. Until the moment of emergency hospitalization, it is advisable to limit physical activity, which will help to stop bleeding.
Torsion of the uterine appendages. Diagnosed exclusively in women of reproductive age. By changing their position on the capillary base, torsion destabilizes blood flow and causes acute pain with variable intensity. Accompanied by vomiting, nausea. Often, a dermoid active ovarian teratoma is subsequently detected. The dermoid consists of compacted connective tissue of a rounded shape with a mucous consistency inside. It is an indication for cystectomy, in the worst case, for wedge resection or oophorectomy.
Chronic adnexitis, genital prolapse, preserved ovary syndrome. They cause dull, recurrent pain symptoms.
Benign neoplasms in the muscular membrane of the uterus: endometriosis of all histological varieties, fibromyoma. Compression of adjacent internal organs and the pathological processes of the cyst itself cause symptoms in fibromyoma. Non-cancerous tumors of the myometrium cause the formation of secondary dysmenorrhea. With it, pain sensations acquire a systematic character. Otherwise, the pain becomes unbearable, causing disability, the need for emergency hospitalization.

In addition to pain in the lower abdomen, the above pathologies are accompanied by discharge, increased body temperature, and fatigue. The diagnosis is confirmed by blood and urine tests: high levels of leukocytes indicate the presence of inflammatory processes.

Pregnancy and its complications

Pain is contrary to the health of the mother and child during pregnancy. It is necessary to differentiate your own feelings, to determine the irradiation of discomfort that may occur during the development of:

Ectopic pregnancy. If the pain is strong, cramping, up to loss of consciousness, with localization at a specific point and slight discharge. This condition is characterized by a sharp drop in blood pressure. There is a threat of rupture of the fallopian tube from 7 to 12 weeks, when pain spreads under the ribs or into the anus.
The threat of miscarriage. If pains of a aching nature, radiating to the lower back, last for several hours, are accompanied by spotting. In case of acute attacks, the patient must be immediately hospitalized. Stressful situations, various types of trauma, physical activity, and fetal diseases can provoke premature interruption.
Flatulence, constipation or megacolon if frequent pain in the lower abdomen is preceded by an incorrect diet. The diagnosis is confirmed by nausea or heartburn, vein thrombosis in the rectal areas. Such conditions prevent the full development of pregnancy, so it is recommended to carefully optimize the diet.
Detachment of the placenta. If the pain is very strong, growing, do not allow to take a vertical position of the body. At the same time, the lower abdomen is tense, the risk of intrauterine hypoxia and subsequent death of the child is high. In this case, immediate medical attention is needed.
One of the pathologies from the "acute abdomen" group (pancreatitis, appendicitis) with the need for prompt medical intervention.

Natural pains, in which nothing threatens the health of the mother and child, develop in the early stages of pregnancy, when the belly grows. The muscles are stretched, the uterus increases in size, the internal organs are slightly displaced. These factors lead to some discomfort, but it should also be reported to the observing gynecologist.

Diseases of the genitourinary system are accompanied by pain over the pubic bone with irradiation to the right or left side. Some tension or pressure, frequent urination, a change in the color of urine indicate the presence of one of the diseases:

Cystitis. It is characterized by false urge to urinate (there is no feeling of complete emptying), aching sensations in the lower abdomen, less often - urinary incontinence. The clinical picture is supplemented by general malaise, fever, in chronic cases there is an admixture of blood in the urine.
Chronic pyelonephritis. Pathology worries patients in the winter season with excruciating pain in the lower abdomen, lower back. Developing discomfort, high fever, headache, fatigue, arterial hypertension are a common cause of insomnia. Urine contains an admixture of pus.
Stones or sand in the bladder, kidneys (urolithiasis). Calculi grow on the inner walls, are able to move along the passage of the genitourinary system. This process causes an attack of renal colic. The pain is aggravated by the fixation of stones inside the narrow channels. A sudden urge to urinate can occur with any increase in physical activity. But often there is urinary retention due to blockage of the ureter by a stone.
Urethritis. It is an inflammation of the urethra due to the penetration of pathogenic microflora (Trichomonas, Staphylococcus aureus) into the body. The main symptom is burning during urination, purulent discharge from the urethra.

The listed pathologies can be combined - with a long absence of adequate treatment, one disease becomes the cause of another. In this case, there are signs of intoxication - weakness, fever, chills.

Congenital diseases of the female reproductive system entail frequent discomfort, with sharp outbreaks and the extinction of soreness. These include:

Abnormal development of the genitals
Complete absence of an internal organ or any part of it
Disproportionate shapes and sizes of organs
Tapered orifice or channel cross-sectional diameter
The presence of unnatural formations

A woman may not know about some anomalies until an ultrasound scan is performed, where the presence of a feature is revealed.

Inflammation of the abdominal organs

The causes of inflammation of the abdominal organs are the entry of pathogenic microflora into the blood, infection of the stagnant biological environment by them. Less often - the movement of the pathogenic environment from other parts of the body (genitourinary, ENT organs).

A more threatening condition is a total inflammation of the entire abdominal wall (peritonitis), the development of which contributes to:

Perforation of the inflamed appendix, in which an imminent surgical intervention is inevitable. Diffuse pains near the navel move to the iliac region. The condition is accompanied by leukocytosis.
Ulcerative lesion of the duodenum or stomach, subsequent perforation of the walls of the problematic organ, entry of the contents into the abdominal cavity.
Violation of the integrity of the intestinal walls due to a physical puncture, if the swallowed object has sharp edges,
Rupture of a tumor or diverticulum (protrusion) of the intestine.
Infection during surgery or in the postoperative recovery period.
Abdominal injury.

Pain in peritonitis does not have a specific localization, it increases with movement, as well as during sneezing or coughing. If you do not carry out a full-fledged treatment, then the death of nerve receptors is quite likely. In this case, pain sensations will be completely absent - this condition is due to necrosis.

Symptoms are supplemented by vomiting, nausea, lack of intestinal motility, pale and dry skin, tachycardia, and a decrease in pressure. The position of the body - with bent knees, pressed to the stomach - allows you to somewhat reduce discomfort. Complications include panic attacks, seizures, even loss of consciousness or coma.

Young women who have not had time to give birth often have an unstabilized hormonal background. This imbalance is the cause of pain during menstruation. The discrepancy between the volume of prostaglandins produced and the level of progesterone is the cause of an increased number of uterine contractions, headaches, nausea, body weakness, irritability, and possibly vomiting. Due to hormonal imbalance, dysmenorrhea occurs. The condition is the cause of chronic pain of a cyclic nature. The norm is a certain discomfort in the first days of the cycle.

With the full functioning of all organs, menstruation does not cause pain. The exception is cases of incorrectly installed intrauterine device. Soreness in the lower abdomen that occurs in already established mothers during menstruation is a manifestation of endometriosis or inflammation of the ovaries. Emergency hospitalization is necessary in case of bleeding - then 1 pad is not enough even for an hour. Other reasons to call an ambulance are the presence of high fever, fever, foggy or loss of consciousness.

Other factors

They include diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, adhesions formed after surgery, pathologies of the large intestine - ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease. Diverticulosis is more common in older patients. In addition to pain in the suprapubic region, it is accompanied by fever, bloody diarrhea, and an increased level of leukocytes in the blood.

Due to intervertebral hernia, pain can partially shift to the lower abdomen. Their development is due to the presence of impaired posture and other pathological changes in the skeletal system.

Types of pain and their symptoms

When contacting a specialist, you need to describe in as much detail as possible the nature of the pain that has arisen and the symptoms that accompany it. The reproduction of the clinical picture simplifies the process of diagnosis.

Pulsating

They have a cramping character during palpation, they are the result of all kinds of deviations in the development of hollow organs and the subsequent increased load on them. They accompany an ovarian abscess, when the formed purulent masses are the focus of painful pulsation.

Permanent

Observed long-term - from 4 months and longer. Provoke neurological disorders. Often, mycoplasmosis or chlamydia are detected. In medical practice, the origin of symptoms is associated with psychogenic factors.

Paroxysmal

The duration of discomfort is at least an hour, the nature is from cutting-pulling to sharp-aching. The condition speaks of a potential ectopic pregnancy, ovarian rupture, inflammation of the appendages (adnexitis), cyst torsion. Pain covers the lower back. Refers to pain, which requires immediate hospitalization.

Localized in a certain place in the lower abdomen

The causes of localization of pain in the left lower abdomen indicate diseases of the left kidney or left side of the intestine, as well as internal genital organs:

Diverticulitis. If detected late, it causes perforation of the sigmoid colon.
Urolithiasis caused by the passage of stones through the urinary tract.
Adnexitis.
Worm invasion.
Inflammation of the sigmoid colon.
Infringement of inguinal hernia.
tubal pregnancy.
Granulomatous enteritis.

A comprehensive examination of the entire abdominal cavity will allow you to correctly diagnose the pathology. If the epicenter of pain is in the right lower side, the likelihood of appendicitis is high. The etiology may also include: ulcerative right-sided colitis, cholecystitis, terminal ileitis, pyelonephritis, cancer, salpingitis. Less often - intestinal herpes, endometrial polyp, inflammation of the right ureter.

Give to the lower back

Pelvic pain affects the sacrum, lower back, and often shifts to the vaginal area. Acute pain in the lumbar region with high fever, general weakness of the body occurs with appendicitis, megacolon, pyelonephritis, cholecystitis, rupture of an ovarian cyst, or inflammation of the urethra. This condition of a woman can be caused by multiple reasons:

gynecological
psychogenic
proctological
urological
vascular
neurological nature

Chronic pain in the lower abdomen with irradiation to the lumbar indicates the presence of a hidden disease, which must be stopped as soon as possible.

Give to the anus

Such pain in a woman is not considered physiologically normal. They often manifest rupture of the fallopian tube, ectopic pregnancy, inflammation of the pelvic organs. These diseases require prompt medical intervention.

natural pains

Include the period of ovulation, menstruation, as well as after childbirth (approximately 5-7 days). Some women are exposed to psycho-emotional factors. As a consequence, the stomach may hurt, which is a neurological manifestation of the vegetative-vascular syndrome.

Associated symptoms

Simultaneously with pain in the lower abdomen may occur:

Diarrhea, vomiting, fever, occurring with inflammation of the appendages.
Curdled vaginal discharge - with candidiasis, sexually transmitted diseases, long-term use of antibiotics or contraceptives. The lack of timely treatment can provoke erosion of the cervix.
High temperature is a sign of hyperthermia, characteristic of ulcerative processes, dysentery, diverticulitis, cholecystitis, even venereal diseases. An increase in temperature above 38 ° C is an indicator of septic infection of the body. The condition occurs with peritonitis, ovarian cyst apoplexy, rupture of the abdominal aorta or fallopian tubes.

Hypothermia in the range of 34-35 ° C is a harbinger of internal bleeding, an indication for prompt medical intervention.

Which doctor to contact

If the woman's condition provides for an independent visit to the clinic, it is recommended to start her treatment from the therapist's office. If necessary, the specialist will refer to narrow profile doctors: to a gynecologist, urologist, endocrinologist, gastroenterologist.

If the patient's health is at risk and an ambulance has already been called, the woman is advised to:

Take a horizontal position in a calm ventilated area
Place a heating pad with ice on the stomach for a maximum of 15-20 minutes. It is strictly forbidden to warm up the affected area
Do not take any medications on your own, except for No-shpa (maximum - 2 tablets)
Connect an intravenous drip (if possible) with a solution of sodium chloride with obvious symptoms of internal bleeding. These include a blue tint to the face, rapid pulse, fainting

Before examination by a doctor, you should not eat or drink. If necessary, moisturizing the lips and tongue with water is allowed.

Diagnostics

The uncertainty of the nature and localization of pain sensations is dispelled after the doctor collects an anamnesis and conducts diagnostics, including:

Inspection with palpation of a specific area
Blood tests, urine tests, including leukocyte formula
Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity, small pelvis
FGDS, ECG

Treatment

The volume of therapeutic intervention is predetermined by the type of diagnosis revealed and the individual characteristics of the organism. The doctor takes into account the day of the monthly cycle, on which the use of antispasmodics depends.

The gynecologist selects sparing medical practices for the female body. Hormone therapy, antibiotics, analgesics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed. Additionally, vitamin therapy is carried out. Surgical intervention is carried out only if there are indications (with peritonitis, rupture of the fallopian tube), and in case of ineffectiveness of conservative methods.

Video: Where does the pain in the lower abdomen in women come from

Modern women know a huge number of symptoms, clues, hints and signs that tell them that they are probably pregnant. These symptoms and signs may appear individually or all at once. And if a woman suspects or does not exclude the possibility of conception, she will undoubtedly be able to recognize the signals that her body will give. But, as you know, most of the early signs of pregnancy are very similar to the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Therefore, do not rush to take them as a diagnosis.

In cases where the next menstruation is delayed, and at the same time there are still a number of other signs of pregnancy, then we can talk about a high probability of its onset. But it often happens that women begin to build their assumptions without waiting for a delay in menstruation. In cases where there is a reason to expect pregnancy, then, as a rule, a woman can feel an early sign of pregnancy - pulling the lower abdomen. This can be observed at the earliest stages. Why is this happening?

The reason for this sensation can be either an approaching menstruation, or the fact that a fertilized egg is attached to the wall of the uterus. In order to thoroughly gain a foothold in the uterine cavity, a fertilized egg (zygote) begins to scrape out epithelial cells, thereby preparing a place for its attachment. This process is called implantation, it may be accompanied by some signs that a woman will tell about her pregnancy even before the onset of menstruation. Mainly we are talking about the fact that the main sign of pregnancy is pulling the lower abdomen. At this time, the woman's uterus is experiencing a violation of the integrity of its wall and the invasion of a foreign body into it.

As a rule, during the attachment of the zygote to the uterine wall, women experience spotting small bloody vaginal discharge. Many women may mistake these secretions for the premature onset of menstruation. So, some time before the start of the next cycle, but with the conception already taking place, women can feel a feeling of pulling pain in the lower abdomen, which is often accompanied by brown, reddish, pink or cream-colored vaginal discharge.

Women who are unaware of their pregnancy tend to perceive these phenomena as PMS. In addition, many other signs of pregnancy are very similar to the sensations that women experience before the onset of menstruation - these are mood swings, changes in appetite, aversion to certain smells, nausea, irritability, and increased sensitivity and soreness of the nipples.

For these reasons, it is very difficult to recognize the state of pregnancy before the delay of menstruation. Also, many of the women can feel the feeling of pulling pain in the lower abdomen for completely different reasons: the development of infections, trauma, inflammation, stress, the effects of hormonal drugs and contraceptives, the consequences of a gynecological examination or sexual intercourse, etc.

Also, a feeling of pulling pain in the lower abdomen can be a sign of a threatened abortion. This is because the egg is a foreign body for the uterus, and she is trying her best to get rid of it, starting to contract at the same time. The female body is designed in such a way that during the attachment of the egg to the uterus, its immune system weakens somewhat and gives the embryo a chance to survive. But the egg does not always win this fight.

Irina 24.09 15:55

Often, aching pain in the lower abdomen is confused with the onset of menstruation and do not pay attention to it. And I was like that too, but when I took the test and called my doctor, she told me that it was not very good, but there was no need to panic. I did an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy, they said there was a threat of miscarriage. I went to my doctor, she looked, said that everything was normal in principle, but she prescribed Viferon suppositories, if my memory serves me right, but it’s better to clarify. I put down the candles and everything worked out, now I have a daughter 1.5 years old))))

Women most often complain of pain in the lower abdomen. This is due to the physiological characteristics of the female body and, above all, to the unique ability to give life to a new person.

But do not forget about other, pathological causes of pain syndrome, due to which pulling pain in the peritoneal region can manifest itself in both sexes.

Knowing which of the reasons pose a serious health hazard will help prevent the development of complications and come to the aid of your body in time.

In what cases can pull in the lower abdomen in a healthy person?

Before period (PMS)

Drawing pain in the abdomen, especially in its lower part, in girls and women of reproductive age every month reminds of the imminent onset of menstruation.

In addition to aching pain in the abdomen and lower back, premenstrual syndrome is often accompanied by headache and psycho-emotional stress:

irritability
tearfulness
depressive state.

All this helps women to easily determine the beginning of the natural process in their body. Why are so many of the fair sex forced to experience pain in the lower abdomen every month, sometimes quite intense and prolonged?

Menstruation is evidence that the fertilization of the egg did not occur. The uterus does not need a layer of endometrium that covers it, the function of which is to create optimal conditions for the adoption of the embryo and the course of pregnancy.

The removal of the endometrial mucosa to the outside occurs due to the contraction of the smooth muscles of the uterus, the spasms of which cause pain in the abdomen. Prostaglandin hormones are responsible for uterine contractions on critical days, the motor activity of the uterus and the intensity of sensations depend on the level of their concentration in the blood.

During ovulation

In the rest of the menstrual cycle - during the period when there are no periods - processes take place that prepare the woman's body to become a mother. Therefore, mild aching pain on the left or right in the groin about one and a half to two weeks after menstruation is usually not a cause for concern either.

A slight discomfort for a couple of days in the middle of the cycle indicates ovulation: the maturation and exit of the follicle from the ovary, which may be accompanied by minor damage to the blood vessels and small bloody discharge from the vagina.

Echoes of this process often cause minor pain: depending on which ovary the egg came from, the pain is localized to the left or right.

In addition, a woman during ovulation may experience:

a slight increase in body temperature,
heaviness in the mammary glands,
nausea,
profuse white discharge of clear mucus (or slightly pink).

These signs are not dangerous and indicate a healthy course of ovulation. In addition, these factors help to calculate the optimal timing for successful conception, since a week after ovulation there is practically no chance of a favorable outcome.

When pregnancy occurs

If a woman has a delay (there is no menstruation at the beginning of a new cycle), and the body gives signals similar to the symptoms of premenstrual tension, this is most likely a joyful event: the onset of pregnancy. The delay in menstruation, morning sickness and pulling pain just above the groin leave no doubt that a little new life was born.

At the beginning of pregnancy, the stomach often pulls like during menstruation. The fact is that after ovulation, a fertilized egg reaches the uterus only at the end of the cycle - around the time of the onset of the next menstruation - therefore, women often confuse the process of attaching it to the walls of the uterus with PMS.

The main reproductive organ in girls - the uterus - accepting the invasion of a "foreign body", is forced to adapt its muscle tissues for further peaceful coexistence. Therefore, the implantation of the egg is accompanied by damage to the epithelial cells, which explains the pain syndrome and the presence of minor bleeding in the early stages of conception.

In the later stages of pain, localized below the navel, occur due to:

an increase in the size of the abdomen,
increasing load on the ligamentous apparatus of the uterus,
pressure of the uterus on neighboring organs,
softening of the pelvic bones and ligaments.

With flatulence and stool disorders

Bloating and pain in the lower peritoneum is a common complaint in men and women with flatulence and stool disorders.

Processing food that promotes increased gas formation (legumes, sauerkraut, pastries, fast food, carbonated drinks, etc.), bacteria in the intestine release gases that, having accumulated, begin to put pressure on its walls and negatively affect motility.

In pregnant women, an enlarged uterus puts additional pressure on the intestines, exacerbating the problem with belching, hiccups, and bad breath.

As a result, there may be a delay in bowel movement - constipation, or, conversely, loose stools - diarrhea. The same situation can occur with a lack of intestinal microflora due to the intake of certain medications and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, the cause of heaviness in the abdomen and indigestion can be poisoning.

During constipation, pain sensations are caused by a large amount of feces, which create pressure on the walls of the intestine. He, in turn, begins to put pressure on the organs located in the neighborhood. With diarrhea - pain and heaviness provokes stretching of the intestinal walls and spasms of smooth muscles.

What can heaviness in the lower abdomen during pregnancy mean?

Pregnant women should definitely listen to abdominal pain of an unknown nature, because they can harm two lives at once. In addition to relatively harmless flatulence and stool disorders, which we described above, heaviness in the abdomen can be accompanied by contractions and serious pathologies of pregnancy.

The threat of placental abruption

A real threat to the life of the fetus is premature detachment of the placenta - a pathology that most often manifests itself in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. The placenta performs a protective function, providing the baby in the womb with everything necessary. With its complete detachment, the fetus may die.

The classic symptoms of this complication are:

internal or external bleeding
severe and dull pain in the groin area,
uterine hypertonicity;
fetal heart failure.

To provoke premature detachment of the placenta during pregnancy can be an injury to the abdomen or the presence of the mother:

bad habits (smoking, alcohol, drugs);
iron deficiency anemia;
autoimmune diseases;
allergies to certain types of drugs;
changes in the uterine epithelium (occurs in women who have had a large number of births);
sudden changes in blood pressure.

Training bouts

At the end of the second trimester, women in position may feel cramping pains and tension in the abdomen several times a day, in which the uterus becomes, as it were, “stone”. These are training contractions that prepare the body for future childbirth.

You should not be afraid of them, but in case of increased pain intensity, it is better to consult a gynecologist to exclude the threat of miscarriage or premature birth.

In the last weeks of pregnancy, similar sensations can be caused by the onset of labor pains.

Divergence of the pelvic bones

Pain in the pubic, groin or pelvic region in a pregnant woman, aggravated by walking and changing body position, often indicates a divergence of the bones of the pubic joint - symphysitis. This pathology usually manifests itself in the third trimester and requires close monitoring by a doctor until the very birth. In some cases, the pregnant woman even requires hospitalization.

Fetal tremors

Starting from the middle of pregnancy (16-24 weeks), pain in the lower abdomen can also occur due to movements and pushes of the growing baby. And, although they are often quite painful, they are quite natural and safe.

Pathological causes of pulling pains in the lower abdomen

Appendicitis

The appendix is located on the lower right side of the abdomen. If its inflammation occurs, pus accumulates in the process, and it itself increases in size and becomes painful. Appendicitis causes acute and sharp pain in the peritoneum, the patient feels sick, he experiences weakness and chills due to fever.

Diseases of the kidneys, bladder

The inflammatory process of the urinary tract (cystitis, pyelonephritis) often leads to swelling of the affected organs.

The kidneys and bladder compress the nerve endings, irritating the back wall of the peritoneum, hence:

painful and frequent urination
bloody and white discharge in the urine,
pain in the abdomen and in the lumbar region,
signs of general intoxication (dizziness, lethargy, decreased appetite, the patient feels sick).

Gynecological diseases

Heaviness in the lower abdomen can be a symptom of a progressive disease of the female genital area.

Most often they are:

Endometriosis (growth of the endometrium in the uterine cavity and appendages). It is usually accompanied by brown discharge after ovulation, pain in the groin and pubis.
Apoplexy of the ovary (rupture of the ovary). Its characteristic symptoms are: drop in blood pressure, weakness, nausea, fainting, blanching of the skin, sharp pain on the right or left side of the abdomen.
Cysts, fibromas, adhesive and inflammatory processes of the uterus and its appendages. All these pathologies disrupt blood circulation in the pelvic organs and put pressure on the surrounding organs and tissues, therefore, during their development, the lower abdomen often pulls. They can be accompanied by irregularities and delayed menstruation, intermenstrual bleeding, difficult and frequent urination.

In addition, pain in the lower abdomen often accompanies an ectopic pregnancy. An embryo growing outside the uterine cavity puts pressure on the surrounding tissues, and thereby provokes aching pain in the groin area.

Varicose veins of the small pelvis

Varicose veins located in the pelvis are observed in 30% of women during pregnancy.

It can also occur in the background:

gynecological diseases,
taking hormonal drugs,
frequent childbirth,
numerous abortions,
sedentary work,
excessive physical activity,
pelvic vein thrombosis,
congenital weakness of the walls of blood vessels.

Women with varicose veins of the small pelvis experience aching pain in the lower abdomen, perineum and lumbar region after physical exertion, prolonged standing in an upright position and during intercourse. There may also be brown discharge before and after menstruation.

Diseases of the abdominal organs

Gastritis, gastric ulcer, inflammation of the gallbladder, duodenal pancreas, cirrhosis of the liver and some other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and organs located in the abdominal cavity are also often accompanied by aching pains in the abdomen and digestive disorders.

Most of them are usually accompanied by additional symptoms, such as:

bloating,
flatulence,
burp,
heartburn,
nausea,
vomit,
stool disorder,
general weakness,
decreased appetite.

What to do when such pain occurs?

If your lower abdomen is pulled before menstruation or in the middle of the cycle, the pain is moderate and not accompanied by any alarming symptoms - most likely there is nothing to worry about. But if you have any doubts, make an appointment with a gynecologist and see for yourself.

In all other cases, especially if you are expecting a baby, the pain is very severe or prolonged and / or, in addition to them, you observe an increase or decrease in body temperature, a general deterioration in your condition, unusual discharge from the urethra or vagina - visit an obstetrician-gynecologist as soon as possible and a therapist!

Do not self-medicate! Unauthorized use of painkillers makes it difficult to diagnose and can lead to sad consequences. A timely visit to a doctor will help to quickly determine the correct diagnosis, speed up treatment and prevent unwanted complications.

Video: what can pain in the abdomen below the navel mean?

Drawing pain in the lower third of the abdomen and back is a common complaint. They occur more frequently in women than in men. This is due to the difference in the anatomical location and structure of the genital organs. 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, when they occur, it is necessary to conduct a thorough examination to establishing a diagnosis.

What diseases can lead to pulling pain?

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

Pathologies 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.
Pathologies of the digestive system. The causes of such pain may be disorders of the large and small intestines, pancreas, appendicular process. In this regard, there are complaints of a violation of the stool (constipation, diarrhea or their alternation), flatulence, an increase in the excretion of gases, an unpleasant aftertaste 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. With osteoporosis, there is a change in posture, pain when tapping on the vertebrae, the appearance of folds on the sides of the abdomen, etc. If oncological pathology occurs, signs of intoxication, weight loss, fever, changes in the parameters of the general blood test are revealed.
Pathologies of the nervous system. These include ganglioneuromas, chronic pelvic pain syndrome, and others.

Drawing pain in the lower abdomen in women

Pain that worries women can be caused by diseases and conditions caused by the characteristics 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. 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 bloody discharge from the vagina. It is not possible to independently identify the cause of pain. You need to see a doctor for medical help.
Second trimester of pregnancy. During this period, pulling pains in the lower abdomen can be a sign of a health disorder on the part of the fetus and a pregnant woman, overwork. To receive adequate treatment, you must urgently consult a doctor.
Late pregnancy. Drawing pains can be observed from squeezing the internal organs of the pregnant uterus. They are also harbingers of the upcoming birth.
Ovarian cyst. Pulling pains disturb as the cyst grows. They can increase during sexual contact or after it.
Inflammatory diseases of the female reproductive system. Pulling pains 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. Often they occur after an abortion or unprotected intercourse with a new partner. They may be accompanied by profuse vaginal discharge with a changed color and smell (white, yellow, green, fetid), fever and itching in the perineum.

Drawing pains in men

Pathological changes in the seminal vesicles and prostate can lead to pulling pains in the lower abdomen and in the lumbar region. In connection with their location near the bladder and rectum, there is a spread of sensations to these organs. In this regard, there may be complaints on their part: 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 results from inadequate treatment of acute infectious processes (prostatitis, etc.), physical inactivity, sexual disorders, prolonged shaking while riding in a sitting position. If left untreated, the disease can lead to erectile dysfunction and cerebrovascular syndrome.
Vesiculitis. With inflammation of the paired organs - the seminal vesicles, which are located to the right and left of the prostate, there is a pulling pain in the suprapubic region, along the inguinal fold. Pain may increase with bladder filling and ejaculation. There is an increase in sexual excitability (frequent wet dreams and ejaculations). The disease is a consequence of urethritis, epididymitis or other inflammatory diseases.
Oncological diseases. 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 spread increases. Later, its intensity increases. It starts to hurt so badly 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 is a signal that there are processes in the body that require attention. More than 30 diseases can serve as causes, so it is impossible to make a diagnosis on your own. When contacting a 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 period of time during which the pulling pains appeared, the doctor's professional advice will help to establish the cause and receive adequate treatment. It must be remembered that a person's life may depend on the timeliness of seeking medical help.

Sipping pain in the lower abdomen is one of the most common complaints in women and men. But the fair sex is more prone to sensations of this kind. This is due to the anatomical features of the female body, since almost all organs of the reproductive system are located in the pelvis.

Drawing pains in the lower abdomen can be a manifestation of diseases of the uterus, appendages, bladder, kidneys, intestines, spine or other organs. In addition, in women, such an unpleasant symptom is often associated with the menstrual cycle or pregnancy.

But in any case, this should not be left without due attention. If it pulls in the lower abdomen, then the only sure way out is to contact a specialist for an examination that will help determine the cause and eliminate it.

Given the prevalence of this problem, we will try to tell you why it can pull the lower abdomen, what it threatens and what needs to be done in certain situations.

Causes of pulling pain in the lower abdomen can be pathological and physiological.

Pathological causes include the following:

Among the physiological causes, pain in the lower abdomen of a pulling nature is most often provoked, such as:

psycho-emotional shock;
pregnancy;
premenstrual syndrome;
sexual intercourse;
ovulation.

Having studied more than one women's forum, we managed to identify a number of questions on this topic that are most often asked by women. We invite you to consider them.

Why does the lower abdomen pull in the middle of the cycle during ovulation?

Ovulation is a physiological process, which consists in the rupture of the follicle and the release of the egg from the ovary into the abdominal cavity. The beginning of the ovulation period falls in the middle of the menstrual cycle - this is approximately 14-15 days. The severity and duration of pain during ovulation depends on the threshold of pain sensitivity: in some women it hurts tolerably, and in some it is very strong. There is also an increase in pain during and after sexual contact.

The reason that pulls the lower abdomen during ovulation is the rupture of the follicle, as well as the stretching of the ligamentous apparatus of the ovaries, which occurs due to changes in the hormonal background and active blood flow to the appendages.

Almost always, the pain is one-sided, that is, it sips the lower abdomen on the left or right, depending on which ovary the egg came from.

Also, pulling pains during ovulation can also indicate an inflammatory process of the appendages, therefore, with a sufficiently intense pain syndrome, it will not be out of place to contact a specialist - a gynecologist.

Almost every fifth woman complains that her lower abdomen and lower back are pulled after ovulation. This condition in medicine is called postovulatory syndrome.

There are two causes of postovulatory syndrome: pregnancy and illness.

If a week after ovulation pulls the lower abdomen, then this most likely indicates that conception has occurred, and the egg has attached to the wall of the uterus. Also The following symptoms are indicative of pregnancy:

the chest hurts and pulls the lower abdomen, and the chest swells and the nipples become hypersensitive;
pulls the lower abdomen and discharge of white, cream, pinkish or brownish hues;
delayed menstruation;
morning sickness and pulling the lower abdomen.

Why does the lower abdomen pull after conception? There is nothing serious here, just on the sixth or seventh day after fertilization, the egg "grows" to the wall of the uterus, causing slight pain.

But, in addition to pregnancy, pulling pains in the lower abdomen can be triggered by various pathological conditions, namely:

rupture of an ovarian cyst;
inflammation of the bladder;
appendicitis, in the event that the lower abdomen is disturbed on the right;
inflammation of the ovaries, uterus or fallopian tubes;
injuries of the pelvis and spine;
osteochondrosis and others.

What to do when the stomach hurts during and after ovulation?

First of all, we recommend that you consult a gynecologist and in no case engage in self-diagnosis and self-treatment. The doctor will conduct examinations (gynecological manual examination, examination of the vagina and cervix in the mirrors, blood test for sex hormones, microscopy of smears from the vagina, ultrasound of the pelvic organs, colposcopy and others), determine the cause and, if necessary, give treatment recommendations.

If pregnancy or any diseases are absent, then you need to calm down, drink plenty of fluids, take a mild pain reliever (Ibuprofen, Paracetamol or Tamipul).

If there is no pathology and such pain continues for several cycles, then you need to keep a diary in which the beginning and end of menstruation and the time of pain will be noted.

Also, in the event of a hormonal failure, a specialist may recommend taking oral contraceptives that will suppress ovulation.

Why pulls the lower abdomen before menstruation?

The appearance of pain before menstruation is commonly called premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which is also characterized by headaches, dizziness, irritability, tearfulness, general weakness, excessive sweating, swelling of the face and limbs, bloating, nausea, breast enlargement and others.

Basically, a week before menstruation pulls the lower abdomen, but PMS can also occur immediately after ovulation or immediately before menstruation.

PMS can occur against the background of beriberi, a sedentary lifestyle, chronic stress, overwork, unhealthy eating, inadequate diet, etc. Do not confuse the concept of premenstrual syndrome and algomenorrhea, which we will discuss later.

Why do pulling pains appear in the lower abdomen during menstruation?

Almost all women notice that during menstruation, the lower back hurts and pulls the lower abdomen, only some have minor pains and do not disturb the general condition, while others have intense pains and are accompanied by other unpleasant symptoms.

Sharp paroxysmal and pulling pains during menstruation are considered pathology by specialists and are called algomenorrhea.

Algodismenorea has distinctive features, namely:

Most often, algomenorrhea develops against the background of diseases of the female genital organs, difficult childbirth, abortion, surgery, and stress.

For the treatment of algomenorrhea, painkillers are used (Nurofen, Tamipul, Aspirin, Paracetamol), antispasmodics (No-shpa, Riabal, Papaverine), oral contraceptives, as well as physiotherapy methods (phonophoresis, reflexology, electrophoresis) and diet.

Why pulls the lower abdomen after menstruation?

After menstruation pulls the lower abdomen for three reasons:

hormonal imbalance (increased levels of prostaglandins in the blood;
thyroid disease;
diseases of the organs of the reproductive system (endometritis, salpingo-oophoritis, endometriosis, and others).

Regardless of the cause, with pain after menstruation, you need to contact a specialist for examination. Self-medication not only does not always bring the desired effect, but can also result in infertility.

Delayed menstruation pulls the lower abdomen: what could it be?

If the lower abdomen is pulled, but there is no menstruation, then the woman can most likely be congratulated, since in most cases this is a sign of pregnancy. So the first thing you need to do is a pregnancy test.

To the question of why the lower abdomen is pulled in early pregnancy, we will answer further.

But what does it mean when the delay in menstruation, the test is negative and pulls the lower abdomen? In this case, hormonal failure, gynecological diseases and pathology of organs of other systems are not excluded. Therefore, you still need to contact a gynecologist.

During pregnancy, the following situations may occur:

pulls the lower abdomen during early pregnancy in almost all women due to active blood flow to the uterus and acceleration of microcirculation;
in the later stages, pulling pains in the abdomen are mainly caused by contraction of the muscle fibers of the uterus.

If in the first weeks of pregnancy the lower abdomen is pulled, then this is one of the early signs of conception, which in most cases does not pose any threat to either the woman or the fetus. But it will not be superfluous to consult a gynecologist to exclude the onset of spontaneous abortion.

At the 5th week of pregnancy periodic pulling pains in the lower quadrant of the abdomen are associated with ligament tension and are present in the norm. For the same reason, it can pull the lower abdomen at the 6th week of pregnancy.

But if the lower abdomen is constantly pulled and there is brown discharge from the vagina, then this is a dangerous sign that indicates the onset of spontaneous abortion and requires immediate qualified assistance.

In the late stages of pregnancy, as well as in the initial, a woman also often feels pulling pains in the abdomen. Consider the reasons for the weeks.

34th week of pregnancy: pulls the lower abdomen, as well as the lower back, pubic region, perineum, sacrum. In this case, the sensations resemble pain during menstruation. The reason for such discomfort is related to the preparation for childbirth (pressing the head against the pelvic bone, divergence of the pubic bones, lowering the head, training contractions, etc.). Important! Regular cramping or pulling pains in the lower abdomen, which are accompanied by discharge of the mucous plug, the release of amniotic fluid and a strong prolapse of the abdomen, are a sign of premature birth. If you experience these symptoms, you should immediately call an ambulance.
At 35 weeks pregnant pulling pains in the lower abdomen are also a normal condition, which indicates preparation for the upcoming birth. But if symptoms of premature birth appear at the 35th week of pregnancy, you need to urgently call an ambulance. You also need to act if you start to pull the lower abdomen at the 36-37th week of pregnancy.
At 38 weeks pulls the lower abdomen, the stomach sank, the mucous plug and water moved away - these are signs of the opening of the cervix, it's time to get ready for the hospital. But you need to know that at the 38th week of pregnancy, pulling pains in the lower abdomen can also be caused by pathological conditions. A timely visit to a gynecologist will accurately determine the cause of such pain and avoid serious consequences for the woman and child.
For the same reasons pulls the lower abdomen at the 39th week of pregnancy or at the 40th week of pregnancy. Therefore, you need to be attentive to your feelings and be sure to report them to the obstetrician-gynecologist.

Why can pull the lower abdomen after childbirth?

Causes of pulling pain in the lower abdomen can be:

contraction of the uterus while applying the baby to the breast, which is the norm;
caesarean section (pain in the suture area);
inflammation of the mucous layer of the uterus;
inflammation of the appendages;
placental polyp;
bowel diseases and others.

Most women face such a problem, but not all turn to a specialist. Soreness after sexual intercourse can appear for reasons such as:

Pulls the lower abdomen in a man: causes

Most often, men pull the lower abdomen with inflammation of the seminal vesicles, inflammation and prostate cancer.

On both sides of the prostate gland there are seminal vesicles, the inflammation of which is characterized by pulling pain above the pubis and in the groin. The pain increases after sexual intercourse or when the bladder overflows.

With inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis), it can pull both in the perineum and in the suprapubic region. In addition, pain is given to the lower back.

In the initial stages, prostate cancer practically does not give itself away. Symptoms appear already in the later stages of the disease. A malignant neoplasm of the prostate gland in most cases is manifested by severe pains of a pulling nature, which are similar to an attack of sciatica.

If you find pulling pains in the lower abdomen that radiate to the sacrum, perineum, groin or lower back, you should consult a urologist. Such symptoms may indicate the presence of a serious illness, and the sooner treatment is started, the greater the chance of recovery.

As you can see, there are a lot of reasons for pulling pains in the lower abdomen. In some cases, such sensations are the norm, while in others they signal health problems. An experienced eye of a specialist will help determine the cause and, if necessary, eliminate it.