The pain is so sharp I must hold my breath, almost like a labor pain. They last a few seconds to a minute each, however I may get several of them until I get something moving. Sometimes when the sharp pains won't stop because I can't move the bowels or release gas I push down on my belly or "deep knead" the area to move it. This also hurts allot but helps in the end.
Of course as others have told you sharp pains and stabbing pains can also come from other disorders. Mine are definitely bowel related and stop after moving the bowels and/ or getting rid of gas.
Hope this helps! JEAN