Why Do I Have Lower Left Abdominal Pain?

When you feel pain in the lower left side of the abdomen, there are a several common reasons including gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and musculoskeletal causes. Some of the common gastrointestinal causes include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, or trapped gas. Pain in this area may also be related to inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Diverticulitis is a particularly common cause of lower left abdominal pain, occurring when small pouches in the colon wall become infected or inflamed. Infections or inflammation of the urinary tract can also cause pain in this area. Kidney stones can be felt on either side of the abdomen. For women, menstrual cramps or ovarian conditions like cysts can trigger pain in the lower left abdomen. Pregnancy-related complications, such as ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage, can also manifest as lower left abdominal pain, requiring immediate medical attention. Additionally, muscle strains or injuries to the abdominal wall might be responsible for the discomfort. While these are common causes, less frequent conditions can also cause pain in this part of your abdomen. If the pain is severe, persistent, or associated with other concerning symptoms, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider.