Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain in Women and Role of Ultrasound
Summary
Lower abdominal pain in women can signal conditions ranging from menstrual pain and ovarian cysts to ectopic pregnancy and ovarian torsion. Ultrasound plays a key role in identifying the cause and determining when urgent medical care is needed.
Key Points
- Lower abdominal pain in women of reproductive age can stem from menstrual pain, ovarian cysts, infections, endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, and ovarian torsion.
- Ultrasound, including transabdominal and transvaginal scans, is important for evaluating the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding structures.
- Certain findings on ultrasound, such as complex cysts, absent blood flow, or an empty uterus, can help diagnose emergencies like ovarian torsion or ectopic pregnancy.
- Sudden severe pain, vaginal bleeding, dizziness, fever, vomiting, or suspected pregnancy require immediate hospital care.
