Why Do Women Experience a Feeling of Abdominal Fullness or Discomfort in the Lower Abdomen?

Female patients may experience abdominal distension and a sense of heaviness in the lower abdomen due to various reasons such as menstrual irregularities, tumors, acute appendicitis, miscarriage, ovulation, and others. Here are some possible causes:

1. Menstrual Irregularities

Menstrual irregularities are one of the most common causes of lower abdominal discomfort. Some women may experience pain in the lower abdomen and general discomfort during their menstrual cycle. In severe cases, the pain can be quite intense. Most cases of menstrual pain in teenage girls are primary dysmenorrhea, which is often self-limiting. However, menstrual pain that occurs after menstruation may be caused by an underlying medical condition and should be evaluated by a doctor promptly.

2. Tumors

Tumors can cause abdominal pain, bloating, backache, and a sense of heaviness in the lower abdomen. These symptoms are usually persistent and do not disappear suddenly. Additionally, if a tumor ruptures, bleeds, or twists, it can cause sudden abdominal pain that requires immediate surgical intervention.

3. Acute Appendicitis

Acute appendicitis can also cause severe abdominal pain. The pain usually starts in the upper abdomen and gradually moves to the right lower abdomen. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, anorexia, fever, and tenderness in the right lower abdomen. Acute appendicitis requires prompt medical attention, and surgical removal of the appendix may be necessary. Delaying treatment can lead to more severe abdominal infections.

4. Miscarriage

For pregnant women, sudden lower abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding is often caused by miscarriage. Ectopic pregnancy can also cause lower abdominal pain, usually in a sudden manner. Internal bleeding in the abdominal cavity can cause patients to feel a sense of heaviness in the rectum, frequent urges to defecate, paleness, dizziness, fatigue, and even shock.

5. Ovulation

During ovulation, some women may experience lower abdominal discomfort or mild pain due to the rupture of the ovarian follicle. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and generally does not affect one's health. However, in some cases, a larger rupture of the ovarian follicle may damage small blood vessels, leading to ovarian rupture and internal bleeding in the abdominal cavity. In such cases, medical attention and treatment are necessary.