Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Could It Be Mild Constipation?

Q: Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Could It Be Mild Constipation?

Hello： The pain in the lower left abdomen may be related to the colon or the urinary system, and in females, it could also involve the ovaries. <br>Pay attention to whether there is any fecal impaction, as constipation is not the only cause, and consuming spicy foods can also irr

Left lower abdominal tenderness?

Hello Doctor: I have recently noticed tenderness in my lower left abdomen.
When I press on it, I can hear intestinal sounds, but it doesn't hurt when I'm not pressing.
I have been having bowel movements in the past few days, but they feel like slightly dehydrated hard stools.
I would like to ask if the tenderness in my lower left abdomen could be caused by mild constipation, or should I see a gynecologist? Thank you!

C, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/31

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: The pain in the lower left abdomen may be related to the colon or the urinary system, and in females, it could also involve the ovaries.
Pay attention to whether there is any fecal impaction, as constipation is not the only cause, and consuming spicy foods can also irritate the intestines.
If the condition does not improve, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2022/08/31

More Info

Left lower abdominal pain can indeed be a symptom of mild constipation, especially if you are experiencing hard stools and associated discomfort. The fact that you notice tenderness when pressing on the area, along with the sounds of bowel movement, suggests that there may be some gastrointestinal activity occurring, but it could be hindered by the consistency of your stool.

Constipation is defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week, and it can lead to discomfort, bloating, and abdominal pain. When stool becomes hard and dry, it can cause strain during bowel movements, leading to pain in the lower abdomen. This pain can sometimes be localized to the left lower quadrant, particularly if there is a buildup of stool in the descending colon, which is located on the left side of the abdomen.

In your case, since you mentioned that you have been passing stools, albeit hard ones, it is possible that the pressure and discomfort you are feeling in the left lower abdomen could be related to this mild constipation. The sounds of bowel movement you hear when pressing on the area may indicate that your intestines are still functioning, but they may be struggling to move the harder stool effectively.

However, it is also important to consider other potential causes of left lower abdominal pain. Conditions such as diverticulitis, which is inflammation of small pouches that can form in the walls of the colon, can cause similar symptoms. Additionally, gynecological issues, such as ovarian cysts or endometriosis, can also present with left-sided abdominal pain in women. Given that you are experiencing localized tenderness, it may be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider who can perform a thorough evaluation.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience additional symptoms such as fever, severe pain, or changes in bowel habits, it would be advisable to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

In summary, while mild constipation could be a contributing factor to your left lower abdominal pain, it is essential to keep an open mind regarding other potential causes. If you have concerns about gynecological issues, seeing a gynecologist would be a good idea, especially if you have a history of menstrual pain or other related symptoms. It is always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional medical advice when experiencing persistent or concerning symptoms.

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