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Types of Stomach Pain in Female - Treatment and Medicine

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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Aman Priya Khanna
Written by Hexahealth Care Team, last updated on 10 August 2024| min read
Types of Stomach Pain in Female - Treatment and Medicine

Quick Summary

  • Stomach pain in females can vary from cramping, sharpness, and dullness to aching
  • The location of the pain and other accompanying symptoms can help narrow down the cause
  • There are several natural remedies, including drinking water and avoiding spicy foods, that can help relieve stomach and abdominal pain

Stomach pain is also called Abdominal pain. Stomach pain in females can vary from cramping, sharpness, and dullness to aching. The location of the pain and other accompanying symptoms can help narrow down the cause. 

Several natural remedies, including drinking water and avoiding spicy foods, can help relieve stomach and abdominal pain. There are over-the-counter and prescription remedies available if these don't work. Continue reading the article to learn more about types of female stomach pain.

Types of Stomach Pain or Abdominal Pain

Given the numerous organs in your abdomen, your doctor may want to focus on a specific area to determine what kind of pain you're experiencing. The stomach is frequently divided into quadrants or four parts by healthcare professionals. If you are experiencing pain in the:

  1. Upper abdominal pain: This discomfort is felt in the upper region of the abdomen, close to the ribs. Hiatal hernias, pancreatitis, and acid reflux are a few possible causes.
  2. Lower abdominal pain: This pain is felt below the navel in the lower abdomen region. A urinary tract infection, menstrual pains, or constipation might bring it on.
  3. Right-sided abdominal pain: Below the ribs, on the right side of the belly, is where right-sided abdominal discomfort is felt. Liver illness, gallstones, or appendicitis might bring it on.
  4. Left-sided abdominal pain: Just below the rib cage, on the left side of the abdomen, is where left-sided abdominal discomfort is felt. Diverticulitis, kidney stones, or inflammatory bowel disease might bring it on.
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Causes for different types of stomach pain or abdominal pain

There are many different types of stomach pain in females and many potential causes. It's important to note that abdominal pain can be a symptom of various medical conditions, and it's not always possible to determine the exact cause of abdominal pain without further medical evaluation. 

Here is a table of some potential types and causes of stomach pain in females:

Type of Abdominal Pain

Possible Causes

Upper abdominal pain

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer, pancreatitis, hepatitis, issues related to gallbladder, hiatal hernia, oesophagal spasm, heartburn
Lower abdominal pain Constipation, diarrhoea, inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, sexually transmitted disease (STDs), kidney stones, bladder infections, prostate problems
Left-sided abdominal pain Diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, ovarian cysts or other problems with the female reproductive system, kidney stones, kidney infections, aortic aneurysm
Right-sided abdominal pain Appendicitis, gallbladder disease, liver hepatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, ovarian cysts or other problems with the female reproductive system, kidney stones, kidney infections

Remedies for different types of Abdominal Pain

It is crucial to note that these are just a few examples of home remedies that may help relieve abdominal pain, and the specific remedies that are most effective may vary from person to person. 

Here is a table with information on potential home remedies for different types of stomach pain in females:

Type of Abdominal Pain Home Remedies

Cramping pain, Sharp or stabbing pain, Constant, dull pain

 

Heat therapy (e.g. heating pad, hot water bottle, warm bath), relaxation techniques (e.g. deep breathing, meditation), gentle exercise (e.g. walking), warm tea (e.g. chamomile, peppermint),  avoiding trigger foods and drinks (e.g. caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods)
Severe, sudden pain Emergency medical treatment

Treatment for different types of Abdominal Pain

The treatment for abdominal pain will depend on the underlying cause of the pain. Here is a table with information on different types of stomach pain in females based on location and potential treatments:

Location of Abdominal Pain Potential Treatments
Upper abdominal pain Antacids or other medications for GERD or peptic ulcer disease, medications or surgery for pancreatitis, hepatitis, or gallstones

Lower abdominal pain

Pain relievers (e.g. ibuprofen), heating pad, hot water bottle, warm bath, dietary changes (e.g. increasing fibre intake for constipation, avoiding trigger foods for IBS), medications for IBD or UTI)
Left-sided abdominal pain Antibiotics for diverticulitis, surgery for ovarian cyst or torsion, dietary changes (e.g. increasing fibre intake for constipation), medication (e.g. antibiotics or immunosuppressants for IBD or colitis)
Right-sided abdominal pain Appendectomy for appendicitis, surgery for gallstones, dietary changes (e.g. increasing fibre intake for constipation, avoiding trigger foods for IBS), medication (e.g. antibiotics or immunosuppressants for IBD)

When should I seek medical help?

Consult a healthcare provider if you are experiencing persistent or severe stomach pain. You should also see a healthcare provider if you have any other symptoms that are causing you concern, such as fever, vomiting, or blood in your stool.

There are certain situations where it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. These include:

  1. Sudden, severe abdominal pain that comes on suddenly and is severe
  2. Pain that is accompanied by fever, vomiting, or diarrhoea
  3. Pain with blood in your stool or urine
  4. Pain causing difficulty breathing or chest pain
  5. Persistent pain that lasts more than a few days, even using over-the-counter or home treatments

Takeaway

Various conditions, including menstrual cramps, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, and ectopic pregnancy, can cause different types of stomach pain in females.

If you or your loved ones have doubts or symptoms associated with types of stomach pain in females, contact our team of experts at HexaHealth. Our expert team of doctors can consult you and provide you with the proper treatment. Get in touch with us TODAY!

Frequently Asked Questions

There are four different types of stomach pain in females

  1. Upper abdominal pain
  2. Lower abdominal pain
  3. Right-sided abdominal pain
  4. Left-sided abdominal pain

If stomach pain is accompanied by severe vomiting, high fever, or difficulty breathing, it may be painful and requires medical attention. Additionally, it is considered serious when the stomach pain is severe and persistent or accompanied by other symptoms such as blood in the stool, severe diarrhoea, or weight loss.

Stomach pain that is severe and persistent, accompanied by vomiting or fever, could signify a painful condition and require medical attention. Other types of stomach pain that may be serious in females include pain caused by certain gynaecological conditions such as ovarian cysts or endometriosis, gastrointestinal diseases such as IBS or IBD, and certain types of stomach ulcers. 

Stomach pain can be relieved through diet changes, over-the-counter medication, and home remedies such as peppermint tea, ginger, or chamomile. Drinking water or other fluids can also help to relieve stomach pain. Avoiding foods that may trigger indigestion or gas, such as spicy foods, greasy foods, or caffeine, can also help.

Alarming signs of stomach pain in females include severe pain, vomiting, high fever, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms, such as blood in the stool, severe diarrhoea, or rapid heartbeat, may also indicate a more serious underlying condition. 

The duration of stomach pain can vary depending on the cause. It can last for a few minutes to several days. Some types of stomach pain, such as menstrual cramps or indigestion, may be short-lived and go away on their own, while other types of stomach pain, such as IBS or IBD, may be more chronic and last for an extended period.

Laying down or reclining in a comfortable position may help to relieve stomach pain. Some people may find relief by using a heating pad or warm bath. Specific yoga postures can help to ease stomach pain as well. However, it's important to note that the position that helps relieve stomach pain may vary depending on the individual and the cause of the pain. 

The best treatment for stomach pain in females will depend on the cause. Over-the-counter medication, such as antacids or anti-inflammatory drugs, can be effective for some types of stomach pain. Changing your diet and avoiding foods triggering indigestion or gas can also help. 

The three main three types of stomach pain in females are as follows: 

  1. Upper abdominal pain
  2. Lower abdominal pain, and
  3. Right-sided abdominal pain

Stomach pain in females is considered an emergency when it is severe and persistent, accompanied by vomiting or fever or other symptoms such as blood in the stool, severe diarrhoea, or rapid heartbeat. If the pain is located in the lower right area of the abdomen and accompanied by vomiting, it could be a sign of appendicitis which is an emergency.

Last Updated on: 10 August 2024

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational and learning purposes only. It doesn't cover every medical condition and might not be relevant to your personal situation. This information isn't medical advice, isn't meant for diagnosing any condition, and shouldn't replace talking to a certified medical or healthcare professional.

Reviewer

Dr. Aman Priya Khanna

Dr. Aman Priya Khanna

MBBS, DNB General Surgery, Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery, FIAGES

12 Years Experience

Dr Aman Priya Khanna is a well-known General Surgeon, Proctologist and Bariatric Surgeon currently associated with HealthFort Clinic, Health First Multispecialty Clinic in Delhi. He has 12 years of experience in General Surgery and worke...View More

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About Authors

HexaHealth Care Team

HexaHealth Care Team brings you medical content covering many important conditions, procedures falling under different medical specialities. The content published is thoroughly reviewed by our panel of qualified doctors for its accuracy and relevance.

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