Lower stomach pain is something many adults experience at some point. It is so common—but not always as simple. It can show up as a dull ache, cramping, pressure, or sharp pain across the lower abdomen or on one side.
Sometimes it comes with gas or changes in stool. Sometimes it appears together with urine problems or, in women, with period changes. Because the lower abdomen contains parts of the gut, the urinary system, and (in women) the reproductive system, lower stomach pain has many possible causes.
For some individuals, it comes and goes. For others, it disrupts work, sleep, and daily life. In African settings, lower stomach pain is especially common because of diet changes, water quality issues, infections, heat, stress, and demanding work conditions.
Most causes are everyday and manageable. But some signals should never be ignored. This guide explains common everyday causes of lower stomach pain in adults, signs that suggest something more serious, and how working with your doctor can help you handle these episodes safely.
Where Is “Lower Stomach” Pain?
By lower stomach pain, we usually mean pain:
- below the belly button
- across the lower abdomen
- lower right or lower left side
Pain in this region can come from any of these important structures. This includes:
- lower part of the large intestine
- end of the small intestine
- bladder and nearby urinary tubes
- in women, the womb, ovaries, and fallopian tubes
The location, timing, and triggers of the pain give important clues. It may feel:
- cramplike
- sharp and sudden
- dull and constant
- bloated or tight
Common Everyday Causes of Lower Stomach Pain in Adults
1. Constipation
Constipation is one of the most common causes of lower stomach pain. Pain is often crampy and may move from side to side. It usually improves after a good bowel movement. Signs include:
- hard, dry stools
- infrequent bowel movements
- straining on the toilet
- feeling “blocked” or not fully empty
2. Gas and Bloating
Gas can build up in the lower bowel, especially after certain foods. Beans, carbonated drinks, some vegetables, and large meals can all contribute to this. You may notice:
- crampy or sharp pains
- bloating
- passing a lot of gas
3. Mild Gut Infections
Many mild infections settle within a few days with good fluid intake and rest. Viral or bacterial gut infections can cause lower abdominal cramps with:
- loose stool
- nausea or vomiting
- sometimes mild fever
Lower Stomach Pain and the Urinary System
The bladder and tubes that carry urine are located in the lower abdomen.
4. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
UTIs are more common in women, but they can affect men, too. These can cause:
- lower abdominal pain or pressure
- pain or burning when passing urine
- frequent urge to urinate
- cloudy or strong-smelling urine
5. Kidney and Lower Stomach Pain
Pain from the kidneys usually starts in the side or back, but as a stone or infection moves, pain can be felt in the lower abdomen. These may require urgent medical care. Warning signs include: 
- fever and chills
- nausea or vomiting
- severe, wave-like pain
Lower Stomach Pain in Women: Extra Causes to Consider
In women, lower stomach pain can also come from the reproductive organs. Possible causes include:
6. Period Cramps
Many women experience crampy lower abdominal pain during their period.
- pain often starts just before bleeding
- pain spreads to the back or thighs
- pain ranges from mild to severe
7. Ovulation Pain
Some women feel a brief, sharp pain on one side mid-cycle when the ovary releases an egg.
8. Ovarian Cysts
Cysts are fluid-filled sacs in the ovary. When they grow or rupture, they can cause one-sided lower abdominal pain.
9. Pelvic Infections
Infections in the reproductive organs can cause:
- lower abdominal pain (often on both sides)
- fever
- abnormal vaginal discharge
10. Pregnancy-Related Emergencies
Any lower abdominal pain in a woman who could be pregnant must be taken seriously, especially if it is one-sided or sharp. Ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the womb) is a medical emergency. It can cause:
- one-sided lower abdominal pain
- vaginal bleeding
- dizziness or fainting
Lower Stomach Pain That Needs Special Attention
Some causes of lower abdominal pain are more serious and require prompt care.
11. Appendicitis
It often starts near the belly button, then moves to the lower right side. This is a medical emergency. Warning signs are:
- increasing pain
- fever
- nausea
- pain when walking or coughing
12. Intestinal Obstruction
A blockage in the intestines can be life-threatening. Symptoms are:
- severe bloating
- inability to pass stool or gas
- vomiting
- constant pain
13. Inflammatory Conditions
Conditions like colitis or diverticular disease may cause persistent pain. Here are some clues that need medical investigation:
- blood in stool
- ongoing diarrhea
- weight loss
Lower Right and Lower Left Pain: Why Side Matters
Lower right pain may be linked to:
- early appendicitis
- constipation
- urinary infection
- ovarian problems on the right side
Lower left pain may be linked to:
- constipation
- gut pockets (diverticular disease), especially in older adults
- ovarian problems on the left side
The location itself, whether right or left, cannot make the diagnosis, but it helps your doctor narrow down the list.
When Lower Stomach Pain in Adults Is an Emergency
These signs can suggest appendicitis, bowel blockage, severe infection, pregnancy-related emergencies, or other serious conditions. Trust your instincts—discomfort that feels “different” deserves attention. Seek urgent in-person care if lower stomach pain is accompanied by:
- sudden, severe pain that worsens quickly
- fever with intense pain
- vomiting, especially if it is persistent
- inability to pass stool or gas
- blood in stool or black, tar-like stool
- pain with very heavy vaginal bleeding
- dizziness, fainting, or rapid heartbeat
- pain lasting more than 48 hours
How Doctors Evaluate Lower Stomach Pain
Accurate diagnosis prevents complications. Your doctor may assess:
- pain location and pattern
- bowel habits
- diet and water source
- work conditions and stress
- physical examination
- stool, urine, or blood tests
- imaging, if needed
Safe Home Steps for Mild Lower Stomach Pain
If your pain is mild and no red flags are present, you can:
- rest and avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise
- drink boiled or treated water
- eat light meals (porridge, rice, bananas)
- use gentle movement to relieve gas
- avoid alcohol and very spicy foods
Do not start strong laxatives or herbal mixtures, take random antibiotics, give yourself injections, or keep increasing painkillers on your own. If pain does not improve or you begin to feel worse, seek medical advice. For constipation-related pain, your doctor may advise:
- gradual increase in fibre
- more fluids
- gentle movement or walking
The Big Picture: Stomach Pain Causes in Adults
Lower stomach pain is one part of the wider topic of stomach pain causes in adults. The main guide can help you understand:
- different pain locations
- common causes in African adults
- general red-flag symptoms
This article only focuses on pain below the belly button, helping you and your doctor think clearly about causes in this specific region.
Why Ongoing Contact With Your Own Doctor Matters
Lower stomach pain can change over time. Some causes are simple. Others need tests and follow-up. Having a regular doctor or clinic that knows your health history can make care safer. Your doctor can:
- Review your pattern of pain, stool, and urine changes over time.
- Consider your menstrual history, if you are a woman.
- Decide when you can safely watch at home and when you must attend a clinic or hospital.
- Plan targeted tests if needed.
- Understand local infection risks.
- Follow your progress to make sure pain truly settles and does not keep returning.
Some doctors also use secure digital tools to stay in touch with their patients between visits for non-emergency questions. These tools do not replace in-person examinations or emergency care when needed, but they can support continuity of care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is lower stomach pain always serious?
No. Many causes are mild, but red flags should never be ignored.
Can dehydration cause lower abdominal pain?
Yes. Dehydration worsens constipation and intestinal cramps, especially in hot climates.
Should I take painkillers for lower stomach pain?
Occasional use may be beneficial, but repeated use can mask serious problems. Always seek advice if pain persists.
When should I worry?
If pain is severe, worsening, or lasts more than two days, contact your doctor.
Small Pain Can Carry Big Clues
Everyday issues often cause lower stomach pain in adults, but sometimes, it may be the first sign of something more serious. Some are simple and short-lived. Others require urgent care. You do not have to guess alone.
In African settings—where heat, water safety, infections, and physical labor play a role—listening to your body is essential.
- Note where the pain is, what it feels like, and what else is happening.
- Watch carefully for danger signs.
- Use gentle home steps only for mild pain.
- Work with a doctor who can follow your symptoms over time.
If you’re experiencing ongoing or worrying lower stomach pain, keep a symptom diary and share it with your doctor or local clinic so you can decide the safest next steps together.
Early guidance from your doctor, who knows you, is always safer than waiting too long.