Doctor Answers: What Causes Lower Abdominal Pain in Men?

The pelvic region is home to many bodily parts. This includes the male reproductive system, as well as the renal system. A large part of the digestive system also forms part of the pelvis.

Problems with any region in the pelvis can cause lower abdominal pain in men, also known as pelvic pain. Symptoms generally include both pain and discomfort. Accompanying symptoms may sometimes be present too.

Men should understand what pelvic pain means. Sometimes, treatment is non-invasive and comes with little to no side-effects.

There are also cases where pelvic pain may signal something more serious. In such a case, an early diagnosis would be critical. This can help make treatment more successful. There would also be a reduced risk of the male patient experiencing severe complications.

We take a closer look at pelvic pain among men in this post. We consider accompanying and specific symptoms that the patient may suffer from.

The post also looks at some of the most common conditions and causes that have been linked to pelvic pain. We will also look at some effective remedies and treatment options.

In preparing this comprehensive review of lower abdominal pain in men, a licensed medical doctor, Dr. Justin Houman, was interviewed to provide authoritative insights on the topic. Direct questions were posed to Dr. Houman regarding common presenting complaints, such as lower stomach pain in men and lower abdominal discomfort in men, as well as questions about differential diagnoses, appropriate diagnostic evaluations, and the urgency of specific symptoms. His responses contribute valuable, evidence-based clinical perspectives to our discussion of what causes lower abdominal pain in males. Dr. Zayed’s commentary not only addresses the central issue of pain in the lower abdomen in men, but also informs our exploration of related symptoms, including lower stomach cramps in males and pain in the lower abdomen and groin in men. All medically referenced information and recommendations presented here have undergone thorough expert review, ensuring that this content remains accurate, current, and fully aligned with reputable medical sources. This approach reinforces the reliability and integrity of our coverage of the causes of abdominal pain in men and supports male patients and caregivers in understanding both symptoms and therapeutic options.

Q: What Is Pelvic Pain and How Does It Relate to Lower Abdominal Pain in Men?

Dr. Houman answers: Pelvic pain describes discomfort occurring between the navel and groin, encompassing what many people refer to as lower abdominal pain in men. This region can experience a variety of sensations, sharp, throbbing, or persistent aches. Many men report such symptoms, and the causes of lower abdominal pain in men are highly varied.

Acute abdominal pain refers to sudden, short-term pain in this area, which might be due to a minor injury or other transient cause. Conversely, when pain becomes ongoing, it’s often classified as chronic pelvic pain syndrome. Both specific and generalized symptoms can occur; if pain is focused in a certain part of the pelvic or abdominal area, this can help your doctor determine what causes pain in lower abdomen in males by narrowing the potential triggers.Chronic lower abdominal discomfort in men is notable and increasingly recognized. According to the NIDDK, as many as 15% of men might experience such symptoms at some point. Because persistent lower abdominal pain in men may signal a more serious underlying condition, early symptom recognition is essential. Prompt detection and treatment not only relieve the pain but also lower the risk of complications, so paying attention to symptoms of lower abdominal pain in men is key for your overall health.

Q: What Are the Most Common Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain in Men?

Dr. Houman answers: Understanding the causes of lower abdominal pain in men can empower you to seek timely and appropriate care. While both men and women can experience pain in the lower stomach, many causes are linked to male-specific organs or issues.

One major contributor is chronic prostatitis, an inflammation of the prostate that can lead to long-term pain. Recognizing prostatitis and other lower abdominal pain in men symptoms is crucial, especially in cases where discomfort is persistent. The underlying factors can be as benign as muscle strain or as significant as infections or inflammation, highlighting why accurate diagnosis and individualized lower abdominal pain in men treatment are so important. Knowing the potential seriousness of your symptoms allows you to gauge when to see a doctor for lower abdominal pain in men and helps prevent overlooked complications.

Q: Where Does Most Lower Abdominal Pain in Men Stem From?

Dr. Houman answers: There are multiple possible sources of lower abdominal pain in men, and pinpointing the root cause is key for effective care. Here are the common culprits:

• Prostatitis: This is a leading reason for lower stomach cramps male patients experience. Prostatitis inflames the prostate, which can push against the bladder and urethra, causing not only pain in the lower abdomen in men but also lower urinary tract symptoms such as painful urination and ejaculation, blood in the urine, groin pain, and sometimes even flu-like symptoms. Bacterial prostatitis in particular can lead to complications.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Infections within the urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, can also bring about acute or chronic pain, often accompanied by urinary symptoms and pain extending into the lower abdomen and groin area.
• Hernia: Hernias are more prevalent than many men realize, affecting up to 25% during their lifetime. The pain typically worsens with straining, such as during coughing or laughing, and may be localized as right side or left lower abdominal pain depending on hernia location.
• Appendicitis: Inflammation or infection of the appendix causes sudden lower abdominal pain in men that often begins near the navel and shifts to the lower right abdomen. Associated symptoms include fever, nausea, and vomiting, prompt medical attention is mandatory.
• Cystitis: Inflammation of the bladder, often due to infection, can produce pain in the lower stomach male patients experience, and frequent urination with a weak stream. For more details, you can review what experts say on bladder inflammation.
• Enlarged Prostate: Also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), this common, age-related condition causes the prostate to compress the urethra, potentially leading to lower abdominal discomfort in men, as well as urinary difficulties or recurrent urinary tract infections. Learn about how an enlarged prostate can cause lower stomach pain in men.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Chronic inflammation caused by Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can result in lower abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue.
• Urinary Stones: Mineral or salt deposits that crystallize to form stones can trigger intense, severe pain, sometimes described as sharp lower abdominal pain in men. The pain may radiate to the back or groin as the stone passes.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS is often overlooked but can cause significant pain in the lower stomach, along with constipation, bloating, and sometimes mucus in the stool.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Chlamydia and gonorrhea are notable for causing pain in the lower abdomen and groin male patients, sometimes with discharge or urethral inflammation.

Because lower abdominal pain in men may signal any one of these problems, it’s essential to see a doctor. A thorough physical exam and possibly diagnostic tests will help pinpoint what causes lower abdominal pain in males in your individual case.

Q: What Injuries Can Cause Lower Abdominal Pain in Men?

Dr. Houman answers: Beyond typical medical conditions, injuries can be a direct source of pain in the lower stomach male patients report. Any trauma to the pelvis or lower abdomen, such as a direct blow to the testes, may result in sharp lower abdominal pain in men. Less obvious culprits include peritonitis (an infection of the abdominal lining) and fibrosis, both of which can damage nerves and trigger persistent lower abdominal pain in men. It’s important to consider recent accidents or injuries as part of your medical evaluation if you’re experiencing unexplained pain in this region.

Q: How Can Men Alleviate Lower Abdominal Pain?

Dr. Houman answers: Lower abdominal pain in men can cause significant distress in everyday life, especially when combined with symptoms like painful urination or pelvic floor dysfunction. These issues can also impact sexual function and emotional well-being. Alleviating pain starts with identifying and treating the root cause, this could involve medication, physical therapy, or both.

Options like pelvic floor rehabilitation and doctor-prescribed medications play a central role, as does patient education on avoiding activities that may worsen your symptoms, for example, modifying physical activity if you have a hernia. Your healthcare provider will guide you through individualized lower abdominal pain in men treatment based on your diagnosis and overall health.

Q: What Medications Can Help Alleviate Lower Abdominal Pain in Men?

Dr. Houman answers: The right medication depends on what causes lower abdominal pain in males in your specific case. After a physical examination and possibly further testing, your doctor will prescribe an appropriate treatment plan:

• Antibiotics: Used for bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections or bacterial prostatitis. Antibiotics are essential to clear infections and prevent complications.
• Medications for BPH (Enlarged Prostate): If an enlarged prostate is the source of your pain in lower abdomen in men, medications such as Flomax or Hytrin (which relax bladder muscles) or Avodart and Proscar (which shrink the prostate) may be prescribed.
• Painkillers and Anti-inflammatories: Over-the-counter pain medications can help many men manage mild, persistent pain in lower abdomen in men, but your doctor may recommend stronger prescription options if needed. Anti-inflammatory drugs specifically help reduce underlying inflammation that often aggravates discomfort.

Treatment is always tailored to address the underlying cause, ensuring not just pain relief, but also resolution of the root problem contributing to your lower abdominal pain.

Q: What Are Some Natural Remedies That Can Help Alleviate Lower Abdominal Pain in Men?

Dr. Houman answers: Many patients are interested in natural approaches for managing lower abdominal discomfort in men. It’s vital to first identify the underlying cause. For urinary tract infections, for instance, staying well-hydrated is key. Research recommends that men also avoid holding urine for prolonged periods, as this can worsen bladder symptoms.

Some men benefit from cranberry juice or probiotics to support urinary tract health. For benign prostatic hyperplasia, natural supplements such as beta-sitosterol, pygeum, saw palmetto, and ryegrass pollen extract are commonly used, though it’s essential to discuss any supplement with your healthcare provider before beginning a regimen.

What Exercises or Stretches Can Help Alleviate Lower Abdominal Pain in Men?

Dr. Houman answers: Regular exercise, when guided by your physician or physiotherapist, can offer remarkable relief for many men with lower abdominal pain. Physical activity keeps pelvic floor muscles strong, which can prevent or alleviate pain, especially if muscle tension or weakness is a factor. Men with pelvic pain often benefit from stretches, yoga, and low-impact movements, but should avoid heavy lifting if a hernia is present. Pelvic floor or Kegel exercises are another time-tested method for both prevention and management of pain in the lower abdomen and groin male patients report.

Q: What Are the Treatment Options for Lower Abdominal Pain in Men?

Dr. Houman answers: The most effective treatment for lower abdominal pain in men targets not just the pain, but its underlying cause. Management plans often address pelvic floor muscles through physical therapy or at-home exercises, especially if your doctor finds muscle weakness to be a factor. Pelvic pain syndrome may respond to myofascial trigger point therapy, which research has shown to be effective, especially when patients learn to do some aspects of the therapy independently.

However, not all conditions can be self-managed at home. Prostate cancer, for example, requires prompt diagnosis and specialist treatment, while BPH or recurrent urinary tract infections may require a multidisciplinary approach. If pain in lower abdomen in men is persistent, sudden, or severe, professional evaluation is critical to avoid complications.

Q: When Should Men Seek Medical Attention for Lower Abdominal Pain?

Dr. Houman answers: Not all lower abdominal pain in men signals a serious health issue. Many cases are mild and resolve with over-the-counter remedies. However, if you notice persistent, sharp, or worsening pain, or if medications aren’t helping, it’s time to see your doctor. Sudden lower abdominal pain in men, or pain that interferes with daily activities, can sometimes indicate a medical emergency.

Q: How Do You Know if Your Lower Abdominal Pain Is a Sign of Something More Serious?

Dr. Houman answers: The key is to look for warning symptoms accompanying your pain. For example, chronic pelvic pain syndrome and prostatitis often present with discomfort while sitting, fever, or blood in the urine (hematuria), signals that should prompt immediate medical attention.

Blood in the urine can be a sign of urinary tract infection, kidney stones, or prostate disorders. Sudden severe abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, changes in urination, or scrotal changes (such as swelling, redness, or pain) may indicate testicular torsion or appendicitis, which are emergencies. Symptoms of frequent urination, fever, or pain with urination should also not be ignored.

If you experience any of the following alongside your lower abdominal pain:

• Swelling of a testicle
• Redness or darkening of the scrotum
• Abdominal pain with nausea or vomiting
• Frequent urination
• Fever

seek immediate medical assistance. Especially with pain in lower abdomen and groin male patients report, acting early can protect both reproductive and general health. If you’re unsure or worried about your symptoms, visit your healthcare provider for a full evaluation and guidance, your peace of mind and well-being are worth it.

What Every Man Needs to Know About Lower Abdominal Pain

Q: What could lower abdominal pain in men after eating indicate, and should you be concerned if it becomes persistent?

Dr. Houman answers: Lower abdominal pain in men after eating can be related to gastrointestinal issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, food intolerances, gastritis, or diverticulitis, but urinary tract conditions like bladder irritation or prostate inflammation can also play a role. While mild discomfort after a large meal may not be serious, pain that is persistent or worsening, especially if it is accompanied by weight loss, changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool or urine, or urinary problems, should prompt medical evaluation. As a urologist, I advise that ongoing pain should never be dismissed, as while many causes are benign, persistent symptoms may signal a more significant condition that requires timely diagnosis and treatment.

Q: What does right side lower abdominal pain in men usually mean, and which conditions should you consider urgent?

Dr. Houman answers: Right-sided lower abdominal pain in men can arise from several causes, including appendicitis, kidney stones, urinary tract infection, hernia, or even referred pain from the testicle. Appendicitis is one of the most urgent concerns, often beginning with vague discomfort around the belly button before localizing sharply to the right lower abdomen, and it requires prompt surgical evaluation. Kidney stones can cause severe cramping pain that radiates from the back or flank to the groin, often with nausea, vomiting, or blood in the urine, and may need urgent intervention if the stone is obstructing. Testicular torsion, while felt primarily in the scrotum, can present as lower abdominal pain and is a surgical emergency. The key red flags that make this pain urgent include sudden severe onset, fever, vomiting, inability to pass urine or stool, visible blood in the urine or stool, or associated testicular pain or swelling, all of which require immediate medical attention.

Q: What are the most common left lower abdominal pain in men causes, and how are they different from right-sided pain?

Dr. Houman answers: Left lower abdominal pain in men is most commonly caused by conditions such as diverticulitis, constipation, or colitis, while urinary issues like kidney stones, bladder infection, or ureteral obstruction can also present with pain in this area. Less frequently, problems with the testicle or an inguinal hernia may refer pain to the left lower abdomen. This differs from right-sided pain, where appendicitis is a key concern along with kidney stones or hernias on that side. The main distinction is that diverticular disease tends to dominate the left side, whereas appendicitis is classic for the right. Regardless of the side, any severe, sudden, or persistent pain accompanied by fever, blood in urine or stool, or testicular symptoms should prompt urgent evaluation.

Q: What symptoms often accompany lower abdominal discomfort in men that signal a possible digestive, urinary, or reproductive issue?

Dr. Houman answers: Lower abdominal discomfort in men can be accompanied by a variety of symptoms that help point toward the underlying cause. Digestive issues may be signaled by bloating, changes in bowel habits, diarrhea, constipation, or blood in the stool. Urinary problems often present with frequent urination, burning with urination, blood in the urine, difficulty starting or stopping the stream, or pain that radiates toward the groin. Reproductive concerns such as prostatitis or testicular conditions may cause pelvic pressure, painful ejaculation, testicular pain, or swelling. When these symptoms occur together or persist, they warrant careful evaluation to distinguish between gastrointestinal, urinary, and reproductive system causes and to rule out conditions that may require urgent treatment.

Q: How does sharp lower abdominal pain in men differ from dull or persistent pain, and when is emergency care necessary?

Dr. Houman answers: Sharp lower abdominal pain in men often suggests an acute problem such as kidney stones, appendicitis, or even testicular torsion that may radiate to the abdomen, while dull or persistent pain is more commonly linked to chronic conditions like prostatitis, hernias, or gastrointestinal disorders. The key difference is that sharp, sudden pain typically signals something urgent, whereas dull pain tends to reflect ongoing inflammation or irritation. Emergency care is necessary if the pain is severe, comes on suddenly, is associated with fever, vomiting, difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or stool, or testicular swelling, as these can indicate life-threatening or organ-threatening conditions requiring immediate attention.

Q: What lifestyle or diet changes can help prevent lower stomach cramps male patients commonly experience?

Dr. Houman answers: Lower stomach cramps in men are often related to digestion, bladder irritation, or muscle tension, and lifestyle and diet changes can make a significant difference. Eating smaller, balanced meals instead of heavy portions, staying hydrated with water, and limiting caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks can reduce both gastrointestinal and bladder irritation. A diet rich in fiber helps maintain regular bowel movements and prevents cramping from constipation, while avoiding trigger foods such as very spicy or greasy meals can ease digestive strain. Regular physical activity, stress management through techniques like deep breathing or meditation, and maintaining a healthy weight also support better abdominal and pelvic health. If cramps persist despite these changes, a medical evaluation is important to rule out underlying urinary, gastrointestinal, or reproductive conditions.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing lower abdominal pain in men, know that you are not alone and there are many different reasons why this discomfort might occur. Sometimes, it may be caused by simple issues such as indigestion or muscle strain, but it can also be a sign of something that needs more attention, like an infection or problems with your digestive, urinary, or reproductive systems. Getting to know your own symptoms, such as the location, type, and duration of the pain, can help you decide when it’s important to contact your healthcare provider. Remember, ongoing or sharp pain, especially when paired with other symptoms like fever, severe discomfort, or changes in urination or bowel habits, should never be ignored. Lifestyle changes like eating a balanced diet, staying active, managing stress, and listening to your body can often help improve how you feel. If you have concerns about lower abdominal pain men often face, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Your health and peace of mind matter, and it’s always best to ask questions and take action when something doesn’t feel right.

Our Medical Review Process

At Ben’s Natural Health, clear communication, accuracy, and scientific integrity are at the heart of everything we do. Each article is crafted by healthcare experts and reviewed every 12 to 24 months to ensure the information is both up to date and firmly supported by reputable science. We reference only peer-reviewed studies from respected medical publications, and every article includes detailed source citations with direct links, providing assurance of reliability. For an in-depth look at how we vet and update our content, visit our medical review process.

Our Editorial Guidelines

With more than 25 years behind us, Ben’s Natural Health leads the way in delivering trustworthy, research-based holistic health information. We adhere to strict editorial standards so you can feel confident about what you read. Articles are authored by qualified healthcare specialists such as doctors, nutritionists, dietitians, fitness coaches, or surgeons, and independently vetted for accuracy. We openly list every author’s credentials, expertise, and bio with a link at the top of every page. If you’d like to learn more about our writing and fact-checking methods, view our comprehensive editorial guidelines.

Medical Disclaimer

The material on this blog is intended for general informational use and is not a replacement for professional healthcare advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While licensed physicians create and medically review our articles, the information provided does not represent personal medical guidance. Always consult your primary healthcare provider or a qualified medical professional for advice tailored to your situation. Do not ignore or postpone seeking professional advice because of content you’ve read here. Any reliance on the material found on this site is entirely at your own discretion.