A 32-year-old female is complaining of the sudden onset of sharp pain to the left side of her abdomen. She denies any medical history and when asked, admits to being sexually active. Her last menstrual period was two months ago. As an EMT, you should immediately suspect:

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The sudden onset of sharp pain on one side of the abdomen in a sexually active female who has missed her period raises suspicion for an ectopic pregnancy, which is a medical emergency. Mittelschmerz refers to ovulation pain and is usually a mild, dull ache. Pelvic inflammatory disease is usually characterized by lower abdominal pain, fever, and vaginal discharge. Abruptio placentae is a complication of pregnancy in the later stages and presents with vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain.

A 32-Year-Old Female Is Complaining of the Sudden Onset of Sharp