Pain in the lower left abdomen can occur for a variety of reasons. It can be caused by digestive issues, menstrual cramps, urinary tract infections, or even a hernia.

It’s important to identify the cause of the pain, as it can be a sign of a serious medical condition.

1. Digestive Issues

Pain in the lower left abdomen can be caused by a variety of digestive issues, including constipation, gas, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). When stool builds up in the colon, it can cause pressure and discomfort in the lower left abdomen.

Gas can also cause similar symptoms, including bloating, cramping, and pain. IBD, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, can cause chronic abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloody stools.

2. Menstrual Cramps

For many women, pain in the lower left abdomen is a sign of menstrual cramps. During the menstrual cycle, the uterus contracts to help shed the lining. These contractions can cause pain and discomfort, particularly in the lower abdomen.

Menstrual cramps can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen.

3. Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common and can cause pain in the lower left abdomen. UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and infect the bladder or urethra.

Other symptoms of a UTI include frequent urination, painful urination, and cloudy urine. UTIs can be treated with antibiotics.

4. Hernia

A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue bulges through a weakened area of muscle. This can cause pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen, particularly on the left side. Other symptoms of a hernia include a visible lump or bulge, nausea, and vomiting.

Hernias usually require surgery to repair.

5. Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are small fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside the ovaries. They are common and often go unnoticed, but can cause pain in the lower abdomen if they become large or rupture.

Other symptoms of ovarian cysts include bloating, irregular periods, and pain during intercourse. Most ovarian cysts are benign and do not require treatment, but some may need to be surgically removed.

6. Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches in the colon become infected or inflamed. This can cause pain in the lower left abdomen, along with fever, nausea, and constipation or diarrhea.

Diverticulitis can be treated with antibiotics, but in severe cases may require surgery.

7. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form in the kidneys. They can cause severe pain in the lower left abdomen, along with flank pain, painful urination, and blood in the urine.

Treatment for kidney stones depends on the size and location of the stone, but may include medication, lithotripsy (shock wave therapy), or surgery.

8. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the reproductive organs that can cause pain in the lower left abdomen, along with fever, vaginal discharge, and painful intercourse.

PID is often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Treatment for PID usually involves antibiotics.

9. Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes. This can cause severe pain in the lower left abdomen, along with vaginal spotting, nausea, and dizziness.

Ectopic pregnancies are a medical emergency and require immediate treatment, often through surgery.

10. Colon Cancer

Colon cancer can cause pain in the lower left abdomen, along with other symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, and unexplained weight loss.

Colon cancer is most common in people over the age of 50, but can occur in younger people with a family history of the disease. Treatment for colon cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and may involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.