What are possible causes for left lower abdominal pain?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Left lower abdominal pain is commonly caused by diverticulitis, gynecological conditions (such as ovarian cysts or endometriosis), or gastrointestinal issues like constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, or colitis. Kidney stones and urinary tract infections can also trigger pain in this area. Because symptoms often overlap between conditions, identifying the underlying cause quickly is key to getting the right care.

The fastest way to narrow down possible causes is to take a free, instant, online symptom check. In just a few minutes, you'll receive personalized insights based on your specific symptoms, helping you understand what may be going on and what steps to take next—whether that's self-care at home or seeing a doctor promptly.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Left lower abdominal pain can have several causes. One common cause is diverticulitis, which is inflammation of small pouches in the colon. This condition often presents with pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits.

Other possible causes include gynecological issues such as ovarian cysts or endometriosis, which can cause pain in the lower abdomen. Additionally, gastrointestinal problems like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or constipation can also lead to discomfort in this area.

In some cases, urinary tract infections or kidney stones may be the reason for the pain. It's important to consider these possibilities and seek medical attention if the pain is severe or persistent. To help identify what might be causing your symptoms, you can check your symptoms with a free AI-powered assessment, though a healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

(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.
Yew KS, George MK, & Allred HB. (2023). Acute Abdominal Pain in Adults: Evaluation and Diagnosis. American family physician, 37327158.

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