Pain Near the Belly Button: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help

Pain upon palpation to the right of the umbilicus?

Hello Doctor: Today I suddenly felt pain about two centimeters to the right of my navel (on my right side), and it hurts even when I'm not moving.
After eating a little, the pain seemed to lessen, but when I press on the area to the right of my navel and slightly lower, it still hurts.
About three months ago, I had a Pap smear, and the report indicated some signs of inflammation.
After taking medication twice, I felt much better.
Could this be related to the inflammation found in the Pap smear? Should I see a gynecologist again, or would it be more appropriate to consult another specialty? Thank you.

mo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/03/14

Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine

1.
Regarding this abdominal pain issue, it is likely unrelated to gynecological inflammation, and it is recommended to first consult a gastroenterologist.

Reply Date: 2006/03/14

More Info

Pain near the belly button, especially localized to the right side, can be concerning and may indicate a variety of underlying conditions. Given your description of the pain being persistent and exacerbated by pressure, it is essential to consider several potential causes.

One common cause of pain in this area is appendicitis, which typically presents with pain that starts around the belly button and then moves to the lower right abdomen. Other possibilities include gastrointestinal issues such as diverticulitis, hernias, or even conditions related to the reproductive organs, especially in females, such as ovarian cysts or ectopic pregnancy.

Your previous history of inflammation noted in your Pap smear results could be relevant, particularly if the inflammation was related to a gynecological issue. Inflammation in the pelvic region can sometimes lead to referred pain in the abdominal area. However, it is essential to note that not all abdominal pain is directly related to gynecological issues, and other causes must be ruled out.

Given the persistence of your symptoms and the fact that they are aggravated by pressure, I recommend seeking medical attention promptly. It would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider who can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to determine the exact cause of your pain.

In terms of which specialist to see, starting with a gynecologist might be appropriate due to your previous Pap smear findings and the potential for reproductive system involvement. However, if the pain worsens or if you experience additional symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits, you should consider visiting an emergency department or a general practitioner who can assess for acute conditions like appendicitis.

In summary, while your pain may be related to previous inflammation, it is crucial to have a healthcare professional evaluate your symptoms to rule out any serious conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and alleviate discomfort. Please take care of yourself and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

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