Common Causes of Stomach Pain in Females

Stomach pain in females can be attributed to a range of causes, with some of the most common being related to digestive health. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and gastritis can cause significant discomfort. IBS affects the large intestine and leads to symptoms like bloating, cramping, and changes in bowel movements. Gastritis, the inflammation of the stomach lining, may result in upper abdominal pain, often triggered by stress, infection, or certain medications. Other digestive conditions like acid reflux and peptic ulcers can also cause pain in the stomach area.

Common digestive causes of stomach pain:

● Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Causes bloating, cramping, and irregular bowel movements.
● Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, often due to stress or infection.
● Acid Reflux/Peptic Ulcers: This can lead to upper stomach pain and discomfort.

Reproductive health issues are another frequent cause of abdominal pain in women. Conditions such as menstrual cramps, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) are common culprits.

Common reproductive causes of stomach pain:

● Menstrual Cramps: Occur during menstruation, causing lower abdominal pain.
● Endometriosis: Causes severe pelvic pain, often exacerbated by menstruation.
● Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Results in pelvic and abdominal pain, often with fever.

Other factors, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and ovarian cysts, may also cause stomach pain. It’s essential for females experiencing persistent or severe abdominal pain to seek medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Other causes of stomach pain in females:

● Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Cause lower abdominal pain and discomfort during urination.
● Ovarian Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries that may cause pelvic pain and bloating.

At Columbia Clinic Urgent Care, we understand how disruptive and uncomfortable urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be, especially when accompanied by stomach pain. UTIs typically affect the bladder and urethra, but in some cases, they can extend to the kidneys, potentially leading to discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen, often mistaken for stomach pain. Accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment are key to managing these symptoms effectively.

Our experienced medical professionals are equipped to identify and treat a range of UTI symptoms, including:

● Abdominal Discomfort: Many patients report pain or cramping in the lower abdomen, particularly around the bladder area. This can sometimes be confused with general stomach pain.
● Cramping: Intermittent pain in the lower abdomen that may come and go can be distressing.
● Frequent Urination: A persistent urge to urinate, even when the bladder is not full, is a common symptom we address.
● Burning Sensation During Urination: Experiencing pain or a burning sensation when urinating is often associated with UTIs.
● Cloudy or Discolored Urine: Changes in urine appearance, such as cloudiness, a dark hue, or a strong odor, can indicate a UTI. Occasionally, blood may be present, giving it a pinkish or reddish tint.
● Flank Pain: Pain in the back, on one or both sides near the kidneys, may suggest the possibility of an infection spreading.
● Nausea and Vomiting: Severe UTIs can sometimes cause nausea and vomiting, which we can help manage.
● Loss of Appetite: The discomfort and pain from a UTI can affect your appetite and overall well-being.
● Fever and Chills: A high fever and chills may signal a kidney infection, a more serious complication of a UTI that requires immediate attention.
● General Malaise and Fatigue: Some individuals experience a general sense of malaise or fatigue, which can impact daily activities.

Our team of healthcare professionals is here to provide prompt medical attention, confirm your diagnosis, and begin appropriate treatment.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is an infection of the reproductive organs that can cause significant stomach pain and discomfort. The symptoms associated with PID can vary, but common signs include:

● Lower abdominal or pelvic pain – Dull or aching, often worsens with intercourse
● Abnormal vaginal discharge – Foul-smelling or unusual in color
● Painful urination – Discomfort or burning sensation
● Abnormal bleeding – Spotting between periods or after sex
● Fever and chills – Signs of infection
● Nausea and vomiting – Gastrointestinal discomfort
● Pain during intercourse – Common due to infection in the reproductive organs

Seek medical attention if symptoms persist, as untreated PID can cause serious complications.

Stomach pain is a common issue that can range from mild discomfort to severe distress. While some cases may be manageable at home, there are situations where seeking professional care is crucial to rule out more serious conditions. Immediate medical evaluation is necessary if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by additional concerning symptoms.

Severe or Persistent Pain: You should seek medical attention if the pain:

● Lasts more than 24 hours
● Is accompanied by fever, nausea, or vomiting
● Feels sharp, stabbing, or like a burning sensation
● Is sudden and intense, affecting daily activities
● Is localized in a specific area like the upper abdomen

Pain Associated with Other Symptoms: Stomach pain with the following symptoms may indicate an underlying condition:

● Blood in stool or vomit
● Unintentional weight loss
● Difficulty swallowing
● Changes in bowel movements (diarrhea or constipation)
● Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
● Persistent fatigue or weakness

Pain During Pregnancy: Pregnancy-related stomach pain is not uncommon, but urgent care is needed if:

● The pain is severe or persistent
● Accompanied by vaginal bleeding or cramping
● Occurs in the third trimester

Potential Causes: Stomach pain can be linked to various conditions like menstrual cramps, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS or Crohn’s disease.

For persistent stomach pain that does not resolve with over-the-counter treatments or lifestyle changes, a consultation at Columbia Clinic Urgent Care is advisable to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Our dedicated healthcare professionals are here to provide the care and attention you need. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Tibbetts St Portland, Milwaukie OR, Oak Grove OR, Stark Street Portland, Fairview OR, Happy Valley OR, Gladstone OR, Cedar Mill OR, Tigard OR, Lake Oswego OR, Tualatin OR, Oregon City OR.