Pain Above the Groin Below the Stomach: What to Know

Pain that appears when turning, squatting, pivoting, or bringing the knee upward can reflect a hip joint problem. [Hip Impingement](/conditions/hip-impingement/) may cause pinching with deep hip flexion, while a [Hip Labral Tear](/conditions/hip-labral-tear/) can cause catching or clicking. Stiffness and reduced walking tolerance may occur with [Hip Osteoarthritis](/conditions/hip-osteoarthritis/). A pulled groin muscle, abdominal wall strain, hernia, urinary issue, or reproductive and digestive condition can feel nearby, so the exact location alone cannot identify the cause.

For a recent activity-related flare, reduce sprinting, kicking, deep squats, and heavy lifting while keeping comfortable walking. Do not repeatedly press the painful area or force a stretch. Record whether coughing, eating, urination, bowel movements, or hip movement changes the pain. A clinician can examine the hip, abdominal wall, and groin, then guide [Sports Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/sports-physiotherapy/) when a musculoskeletal cause is suspected. Use medicines only as directed and consider other health conditions before taking them.

Seek urgent care for sudden severe pain, a firm or painful groin bulge, vomiting, fever, faintness, inability to pass urine, or a swollen and tender testicle. Prompt medical review is also needed after a significant injury, when pain prevents weight-bearing, or when symptoms persist without a clear activity trigger. New pregnancy-related pain or vaginal bleeding should be assessed urgently.

Ask whether the pain is coming from the hip, muscle, abdominal wall, or another system; what movements to avoid; whether imaging or another test is needed; and how to resume sport or lifting safely. Tell the clinician about bulging, clicking, fever, urinary changes, bowel symptoms, or reproductive symptoms.