Lower abdominal or pelvic pain can arise from the bowel, bladder, muscles or reproductive organs. Pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, a twisted ovary or testicle, appendicitis and serious infection sometimes need to be ruled out quickly.
- Aching, cramping, burning or stabbing pain in the middle or on one side of the lower abdomen.
- Pain that starts suddenly or has been present for weeks or months.
- Take your temperature if needed and record the site, duration and changes in pain.
- Take a pregnancy test as soon as possible if your period is late or pregnancy is possible.
- Call the same day for new persistent lower abdominal pain, fever, vomiting or blood in the urine or stools.
- For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.
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General information, not personal medical advice
This article has been carefully prepared but may contain errors or become outdated as medical knowledge changes. It does not replace diagnosis, examination or treatment by your own GP. Always discuss personal questions and starting, stopping or changing medicines or treatments with your own GP.
For a life-threatening situation, call Ambulance 912. For urgent care outside office hours, call HAP 9252.
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