Lower Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns - Obstetrics and Gynecology

More Info

---

Lower abdominal pain can be a concerning symptom, especially when it arises suddenly or is accompanied by other symptoms. In your case, given that you have a regular menstrual cycle and have recently undergone imaging and blood tests that returned normal results, there are several potential explanations for your discomfort.

One common cause of lower abdominal pain in women is ovulation pain, also known as mittelschmerz. This pain typically occurs around the midpoint of your menstrual cycle, when an ovary releases an egg. It can manifest as a sharp or cramp-like pain on one side of the abdomen and may last from a few minutes to a couple of days. Since your last menstrual period was on May 19 and today is June 2, it is plausible that you are experiencing ovulation pain if you have a cycle that averages around 28 days.

However, there are other potential causes of lower abdominal pain that should be considered, especially since you mentioned that pressing on the area elicits pain. Some of these include:
1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions such as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or even gastrointestinal infections can lead to abdominal discomfort. If you have experienced changes in bowel habits or other gastrointestinal symptoms, this could be a contributing factor.

2. Urinary Tract Issues: A urinary tract infection (UTI) or bladder irritation can also cause lower abdominal pain. Symptoms may include increased frequency of urination, burning sensation during urination, or changes in urine appearance.

3. Gynecological Conditions: While your previous tests have ruled out some serious conditions, it is still important to consider issues such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). These conditions can cause localized pain and may not always be visible on imaging studies.

4. Musculoskeletal Pain: Sometimes, pain in the lower abdomen can be related to muscle strain or other musculoskeletal issues, especially if there has been recent physical activity or strain.

5. Other Causes: Less commonly, conditions such as appendicitis, ectopic pregnancy, or even hernias can cause lower abdominal pain. These conditions often present with more severe symptoms and may require immediate medical attention.

Given your normal CA-125 and AFP levels, which are often used as tumor markers, and the fact that your CT scan did not reveal any abnormalities, it is reassuring that serious conditions have been ruled out. However, if the pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or changes in your menstrual cycle, it is crucial to seek further evaluation from a healthcare provider.

In summary, while ovulation pain is a possible explanation for your symptoms, it is essential to monitor your condition closely. If the pain continues or you have any concerns, I recommend following up with your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may consider additional tests or imaging studies to ensure that there are no underlying issues that need to be addressed. Remember, your health and peace of mind are paramount, so do not hesitate to seek medical advice if you feel it is necessary.