Sharp Left Sided Stomach Pain

Dear Ask The Doctor: Last night I started having knife like pains in my stomach on my left side that go all the way down to my vagina. I couldn't sleep with the pain. It hurts when I take a deep breathe. Any idea what it could be? I don't have insurance to go to a Doctor :( Please help

Dear Shalia: Common cause of left sided abdominal pain are urinary tract infection, pelvic inflammatory diseases, ovarian cysts, muscular strain, ectopic pregnancy and constipation. If your symptoms are not relieved on over the counter pain medications, I would suggest consulting your doctor for a physical examination and diagnostic tests. A urinalysis, ultrasound and abdominal x-ray may be required to diagnose the cause of pain abdomen. Treatment will depend on the cause, I wish you well, take care.