Stomach discomfort is a prevalent yet frequently misconceived symptom among women, stemming from mild digestive troubles to potentially severe health ailments. The pain’s location, nature, and timing offer critical insights into underlying bodily issues. Dr. Leybelis Padilla, a gastroenterologist and founder of Unlocking GI, emphasizes, “Understanding the specific area of discomfort is key to diagnosis and treatment, underscoring the importance of noting the details of your pain.”

Why the Location of Your Stomach Pain Matters

The abdominal area is segmented into distinct regions, each correlating with various organs and potential pain origins. For instance, discomfort in the upper abdomen might suggest complications with the stomach, gallbladder, or pancreas, whereas lower abdominal pain is often linked to intestinal or reproductive organ issues. Identifying the precise pain location aids healthcare professionals in pinpointing potential causes, from straightforward indigestion to conditions like appendicitis or ovarian cysts.

10 Types of Stomach Pain in Women

Abdominal pain can manifest anywhere across the midsection, akin to a character moving across an old-school arcade screen, appearing in upper or lower areas and shifting sides. Dr. Michael Genovese, Chief Medical Advisor at AscendantNY in New York City, states, “The specifics of abdominal pain—its location and nature—are vital in deciphering its underlying cause.” Let’s delve into these particular regions to understand what your symptoms might indicate:

Right Upper Abdominal Pain

This type of discomfort frequently signals gallbladder issues such as gallstones or inflammation, and may also point to liver problems or, less commonly, peptic ulcers. The pain is usually sharp, potentially radiating to the back or shoulder, especially after consuming fatty meals.

Left Upper Abdominal Pain

Pain in this section might originate from stomach ulcers, pancreatitis, or spleen disorders. While it can sometimes be due to gas or constipation, persistent or intense pain warrants a medical assessment.

Side Middle Abdominal Pain

Mid-abdominal pain, whether on the right or left side, often involves the intestines. Causes include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gas, or infections. If the pain is sharp and sudden, it could be a sign of appendicitis or ovarian cysts.​

General Upper Abdominal Pain

A broad ache across the upper abdomen may be due to gastritis, acid reflux, or even stress-related stomach discomfort. This type of pain is usually dull and may worsen after eating.​

Central Abdominal Pain

Pain around the belly button is frequently linked to digestive issues like gastroenteritis or food poisoning. In women, it can also signal early pregnancy or menstrual cramps.​

Right Lower Abdominal Pain

This area is most commonly associated with appendicitis, but it can also be caused by ovarian cysts or urinary tract infections (UTIs). Sudden, severe pain in this region requires immediate medical attention.​

Left Lower Abdominal Pain

Conditions like diverticulitis, IBS, or reproductive issues such as endometriosis or ovarian cysts often manifest as pain in the lower left abdomen. The pain may be crampy or sharp and may come and go.​

General Lower Abdominal Pain

Diffuse pain across the lower abdomen is often related to menstrual cramps, bladder infections, or digestive disorders. In some cases, it may indicate pelvic inflammatory disease or fibroids.​

All-Over Abdominal Pain

When pain is felt throughout the abdomen, it could be due to viral gastroenteritis, food poisoning, or systemic conditions like lupus. This pain is usually accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.​

Pain That Moves from Front to Back

Pain that radiates from the front to the back often signals kidney stones or pancreatitis. The pain is typically severe and may be accompanied by fever or vomiting.​

What If Your Type of Stomach Pain Isn’t Listed?

Not every type of stomach pain fits neatly into these categories. Some women experience atypical symptoms due to less common conditions, such as endometriosis, fibroids, or even rare gastrointestinal disorders. If your pain doesn’t match any of these patterns or if it persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or weight loss, seek medical advice promptly.​

The Bottom Line on Stomach Pain in Women

Stomach pain is a symptom, not a diagnosis. While many causes are benign and resolve on their own, others require timely medical attention. Paying attention to the location, intensity, and associated symptoms of your pain can help you and your healthcare provider determine the best course of action. If in doubt, always consult a professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.​