Causes and Management of Right Lower Abdominal Pain in Women

Right lower abdominal pain in women may be caused by menstrual cramps, ovulation pain, pelvic inflammatory disease, right ureteral stones, acute appendicitis, and other conditions. It can be improved through lifestyle adjustments, local care, medication, or timely surgery. If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by fever, vomiting, or other symptoms, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Menstrual cramps: During menstruation, increased secretion of prostaglandins from the endometrium causes strong contractions of the uterine smooth muscle, leading to right lower abdominal pain. The pain typically occurs before or during menstruation and may be accompanied by backache and fatigue. It is recommended to stay warm during menstruation, apply a hot water bag to the right lower abdomen, avoid raw or cold foods, rest appropriately when pain is evident, and reduce strenuous activities.

2. Ovulation pain: When the follicle ruptures during ovulation, a small amount of follicular fluid irritates the peritoneum, causing mild right lower abdominal pain. This usually occurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle, lasts for several hours to 1–2 days, and may be accompanied by slight vaginal bleeding. It is advised to avoid intense physical activity and get adequate rest during ovulation. Mild pain often resolves on its own and does not require special treatment.

3. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): Infection of pelvic organs by pathogens leads to pelvic inflammation, which stimulates surrounding tissues and causes right lower abdominal pain. Symptoms often include increased vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor, and pain may worsen after intercourse or physical exertion. Patients may take medications such as metronidazole tablets, cefixime capsules, or levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules under medical guidance to relieve symptoms.

4. Right ureteral stones: Mineral deposits in urine form stones that block the right ureter, irritating the ureteral mucosa and causing spasms, resulting in severe right lower abdominal pain. This may be accompanied by frequent urination, urgency, and hematuria. Under medical supervision, medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, dl-anisodamine tablets, or Shenshitong granules may be used to alleviate symptoms.

5. Acute appendicitis: Obstruction of the appendix lumen followed by bacterial infection causes inflammation, which irritates surrounding tissues and results in right lower abdominal pain. Initially, the pain often starts around the navel and then shifts to the lower right abdomen, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever. Treatment includes antibiotics such as ceftriaxone sodium for injection, metronidazole injection, or piperacillin sodium and tazobactam sodium for injection, as prescribed. Surgery may be required when necessary.

Daily care should include maintaining regular作息 (sleep-wake cycles), avoiding staying up late; eating a light diet and reducing spicy or greasy foods; practicing good personal hygiene, especially during menstruation and sexual activity; engaging in moderate exercise to strengthen the body and prevent infections.