It goes like this: you got up one morning, and suddenly there is a stabbing pain in lower left abdomen, and now you are all panicked about what to do and how to deal with it. It’s a common issue in females. According to research by the National Library of Medicine, abdominal pain affects 22 to 25% of the population. The prevalence in women is seen higher at 24% than men with 17% of the cases.
Why Women Are More Likely to Get Stabbing Left Side Pain?
Women are seen asking why do I feel a stabbing pain in my stomach. Abdomen pain or pelvic pain is a common condition that most women suffer worldwide. European Medical Journal has published a report that says chronic pelvic pain affects 25% of women of reproductive age and 15% of all females.
But The Question is Why?
Why sharp pain in lower left abdomen female is so common?
- Well, the answer is hidden in the female anatomy. Women have some vital organs in their abdomen and very sensitive structures.
- Women’s urinary tract differs from men’s because it is entirely designed internally.
- Most importantly, women’s reproductive organs are present right behind the bladder. Women have ovaries and uteruses, and their organs are more sensitive in build than men.
- Women’s menstrual cycle is primarily responsible for the abdominal pain.
- Pregnancy and hormonal imbalance also cause complications in women’s gastric health.
- Other factors like poor diet, anxiety, and stress are significant reasons why women suffer from pelvic and shooting pain in lower abdomen in women.
Below, we are sharing some of the female-focused reasons for sharp abdominal pain, but you shouldn’t limit your stomach pain to these only. There can be many general reasons for lower abdominal pain that need to be studied to identify the exact cause of your pain.
What Might Be Causing The Stabbing Pain In Lower Stomach Female?
Now that we have an idea of why women suffer more from stabbing lower abdominal pain, let’s talk about what the needle pain in stomach wants to tell you. What could be the reason for it, specifically in women? Let’s look at the answers to see why there is a sharp pain in lower left abdomen female:
1. Gastrointestinal Problems
The stomach, large intestine, and small intestine are in the pelvic bowl. Any disturbance in these areas is the primary cause of lower abdominal pain and pelvic issues. Stomach and intestine problems include constipation, gas, diarrhea, and indigestion. It causes stabbing pain in pelvic area female and male as well.
2. Celiac Disease
This autoimmune disease affects the small intestine, making the individual develop gluten intolerance. It can cause lower left abdomen pain as well. In men, celiac disease is caused by diarrhea, bloating, and indigestion with stomach pain. But in women, it can be caused by numerous reasons, such as stillbirth, C-section delivery, miscarriage, post surgical rehab, iron deficiency anemia, early menopause, and menstrual irregularities.
3. Food Allergies
Why do I have stabbing pains in my stomach? The reason might be what you eat. You might be allergic to certain ingredients you consume, or your stomach is intolerant to food and drinks. Allergic reactions cause pain in the stomach, nausea, and diarrhea.
4. Ulcers
Do you have a sharp stabbing pain in your uterus even when you are not pregnant or on your period? The reason might be ulcers in your stomach or uterus. Ulcers are the breakage or damage in the inner lining of the stomach. They cause sudden stabbing pain in pelvic area female left side, indigestion, nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and loss of appetite.
5. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a usual reason of stabbing pain in lower abdomen. In women, IBD is common, and it can get worse due to the monthly menstrual cycle, and during pregnancy. So if you have stabbing pain in lower stomach, it might be IBD. Two of the most common types of IBD diseases in both women and men are Colitis and Crohn’s disease.
- Colitis: An acute disease causing swelling in the large intestine.
- Crohn’s Disease: A chronic disease causing inflammation in the digestive tract and causing abdominal pain.
6. Diverticulosis
The stabbing pain in side, preferably the left side of your abdomen, is usually related to diverticulosis. It’s a condition where little pouches are formed inside the colon’s lining. Usually, it doesn’t have many symptoms, but if the pain persists, you might need to get it checked. Physical therapists might recommend a constipation massage for this very health issue and it’s very useful.
Treatments For Sharp Pain in Lower Left Abdomen Female
There are many specific tests, diagnosis screenings, and medical treatments for acute abdominal pain related to your particular gastrointestinal problem. But here, we will discuss the general treatments women can go for.
1. Increase Hydration
Women face most of their stomach problems due to the lack of water. That’s why it’s essential to hydrate yourself. Drink water as much as you can, and avoid caffeine, alcohol, and any other dehydration drinks. Add fresh juices to your diet and eat food that maintains your hydration level.
2. Taking Pain Killers
You can ask your local pharmacist for over-the-counter painkillers. Taking an antacid or anti-gas medicine helps with conditions like indigestion, pain, diarrhea, and constipation, and relieves the pain.
3. Improving Diet
Women are more likely to have poor diet habits and stress levels that may affect their appetites. That’s why, as a woman, you need to keep track of your diet. Eat a healthy and balanced diet with fiber, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and fats to help the body produce enough energy to boost immunity and prevent pain.
4. Heat Pack
Apply a heat pack to your stomach and rest. Heat will help relieve the pain and relax the contracted muscles or intestinal walls. Most of the time, even a heat pack helps fade stomach pain without much medication.
5. Physical Therapy
It is always best to choose physical therapy for pelvic pain relief and abdominal disturbance. If you are facing sharp, stabbing pain in uterus not pregnant, your PT will help you get rid of the pain with some healthy exercises, stretches, compressions, and massages.
How Lake County Can Help You?
We at Lake County Physical Therapy are committed to relieving sharp pain in lower left abdomen female and male with helpful treatments and healthy approaches. Our professional PTs are experienced in dealing with pain and will guide you through the path of recovery. So, hire a physical therapist and get rid of abdominal pain today.
Sources:
Women’s experiences of seeking healthcare for abdominal pain in Ireland: a qualitative study – PMC
Incidence of Chronic Pelvic Pain in Females Attending a Gynaecology Outpatient Department – European Medical Journal
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