Doctors Note Logo

Published on: 7/21/2026

What does pain on the left side under the ribs mean for women?

Yoshinori Abe

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Left-side pain under the ribs in women is often caused by twelfth rib syndrome or slipping rib syndrome, conditions where the lower ribs shift or move abnormally, irritating nearby nerves and tissues. This can lead to sharp, aching, or intermittent pain that worsens with movement, bending, or deep breathing. Other possible causes include muscle strain, digestive issues, or gynecological conditions, making accurate identification essential.

Because symptoms can overlap across many conditions—some minor, others requiring prompt care—self-diagnosing can be risky and delay proper treatment. The fastest, safest way to understand what may be behind your pain is to take a free, instant, online symptom check. In just a few minutes, you'll get personalized insights, possible causes, and clear guidance on your next steps—empowering you to make informed decisions about your health.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

answer background

What brings you in today?

Can I treat this myselfDo I need to see a doctorWhere should I go for careI'm concerned about a symptomConcerned about a possible conditionMy symptoms are getting worseSeeking a second opinion

Not seeing your question? No worries.

Submit your own Question

Explanation

Pain under the ribs on the left side in women can be due to a few conditions. One possibility is twelfth rib syndrome, where the last rib moves and causes pain. This condition can be uncomfortable and may feel like a sharp or dull ache.

Another condition is slipping rib syndrome, which happens when the ribs move out of place. This movement can lead to pain in the area under the ribs, and it can be especially noticeable when bending or twisting the body.

Both of these conditions involve the ribs moving more than they should, which can lead to discomfort. If you or someone you know is experiencing this type of pain, you can start by using our free AI symptom checker to better understand what might be causing your symptoms before talking to a healthcare professional for more guidance.

(References)

  • Cranfield KA, Buist RJ, Nandi PR, & Baranowski AP. (1997). The twelfth rib syndrome. Journal of pain and symptom management, 9114637.

  • Scott EM, & Scott BB. (1993). Painful rib syndrome--a review of 76 cases. Gut, 8344569.

  • Khan NAJ, Waseem S, Ullah S, & Mehmood H. (2018). Slipping Rib Syndrome in a Female Adult with .... Case reports in medicine, 30057619.

Thinking about asking ChatGPT?Ask me instead

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Was this page helpful?

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.