A sharp or persistent pain in your lower abdomen can be uncomfortable, distracting, and concerning. While there are several possible causes, one common and often overlooked reason is a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs don’t always present with classic symptoms like burning during urination, and abdominal pain may be one of the earliest warning signs. Understanding how UTIs cause lower abdominal pain, what other symptoms to watch for, and when to seek testing can help you address the issue before it worsens.

Do you need reliable, same-day UTI testing? Choose Precision Health. Our UTI testing service makes it easier than ever to get the answers you need, all without an in-house provider visit. Learn more and book your test online today!

How a UTI Causes Lower Abdominal Pain

A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enter the urinary system, most commonly affecting the bladder (cystitis). When the bladder becomes inflamed, it can trigger pain or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvic area, often just above the pubic bone.

This pain may feel:

  • Sharp or stabbing
  • Cramp-like
  • Constant or intermittent
  • Worse when your bladder is full

In some cases, people mistake this discomfort for digestive issues, menstrual cramps, or muscle strain, delaying proper testing and treatment.

Symptoms That Often Appear Alongside Abdominal Pain

Lower abdominal pain rarely occurs alone with a UTI is the cause. Other symptoms may include:

  • Frequent urge to urinate, even when little urine comes out
  • Burning or stinging during urination
  • Cloudy, dark, or foul-smelling urine
  • Pelvic pressure or bladder discomfort 
  • Pain during or after urination
  • Fatigue or feeling unwell

Not everyone experiences all symptoms. Some UTIs present primarily as abdominal discomfort, especially in early stages.

UTI or Something Else? Conditions With Similar Pain

Lower abdominal pain can stem from multiple conditions, which is why testing is essential. Symptoms may overlap with:

  • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia or gonorrhea
  • Bladder irritation or interstitial cystitis
  • Kidney stones
  • Digestive issues, including constipation or gas
  • Gynecological conditions, such as ovarian cysts or pelvic inflammatory disease

Because symptoms can be similar, self-diagnosing based on pain alone isn’t reliable. A simple urine test can quickly determine whether a UTI is present.

When Lower Abdominal Pain Signals a More Serious Infection

If a UTI spreads beyond the bladder to the kidneys, symptoms can intensify and become more serious. Seek medical attention promptly if you experience:

  • Severe or worsening abdominal pain
  • Pain in the lower back or sides
  • Fever or chills
  • Nausea or vomiting

Kidney infections require immediate treatment to prevent complications. 

When to Get Tested

One common misconception is that burning during urination must be present for a UTI diagnosis. In reality, many UTIs begin with pressure, discomfort, or pain in the lower abdomen before urinary symptoms become obvious. This is why early testing is so important, especially if the pain is new, unexplained, or persistent. 

You should consider UTI testing if:

  • Lower abdominal pain lasts more than a day or worsens
  • You notice changes in urination habits or urine appearance
  • Pain is accompanied by pelvic pressure or frequent urination
  • Symptoms interfere with daily activities

Early testing allows for faster treatment, symptom relief, and reduced risk of complications.

Get Same-Day UTI Testing in Denver, CO With Precision Health

Sharp lower abdominal pain isn’t something you should ignore. If you’re unsure what’s causing your discomfort, UTI testing can provide clarity and peace of mind. At Precision Health, we offer fast, confidential UTI testing to identify infections early and guide appropriate next steps. Whether your symptoms are mild to severe, accurate testing helps ensure you receive the right care without unnecessary delays. Book your test online with Precision Health to get answers and protect your urinary health. If you’d like to know more about our UTI testing services, you can easily schedule a telehealth consultation with one of our providers. If you have any additional questions about testing, please contact our medical team directly at 303-756-1020.