Published on: 7/4/2025
Last Update: 7/9/2025
Why might I experience pain in my left lower abdomen?
Pain in the left lower abdomen can be caused by various conditions, including digestive issues and infections. It's important to see a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Explanation
Pain in the left lower abdomen, also known as left lower quadrant pain, can happen for several reasons. It can be due to problems with the digestive system, such as diverticulitis, which is an infection or inflammation of small pouches in the intestine. Other possible causes include kidney stones, urinary tract infections, or even issues related to the reproductive organs, like ovarian cysts.
Here are some common causes of left lower abdominal pain:
- Digestive Issues: Problems like diverticulitis or constipation can cause pain.
- Infections: Urinary tract infections or kidney infections may lead to discomfort.
- Reproductive System: Conditions such as ovarian cysts or ectopic pregnancy in women can be painful.
If you experience this type of pain, it's important to consult a healthcare provider. They can perform tests to understand the cause and recommend the best treatment. Remember, while some causes may be minor, others can be serious and need immediate attention.
(References)
- Hollerweger A, Macheiner P, & Gritzmann N. (2003). Acute left lower quadrant abdominal pain. Ultraschall in der Medizin (Stuttgart, Germany : 1980), 12599037.
- Bodmer NA, & Thakrar KH. (2015). Evaluating the Patient with Left Lower Quadrant Abdominal .... Radiologic clinics of North America, 26526432.
- Expert Panel on Gastrointestinal Imaging:, Galgano SJ, McNamara MM, Peterson CM, Kim DH, Fowler KJ, et al. (2019). ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Left Lower Quadrant Pain .... Journal of the American College of Radiology : JACR, 31054740.
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