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Published on: 8/20/2026

What might cause pain in the lower right abdomen after a hysterectomy?

Lower right abdominal pain after a hysterectomy is often caused by nerve injury, scar tissue (adhesions), or complications affecting nearby organs such as the bowel, bladder, or remaining ovary. In some cases, the pain may signal infection, hernia, or ovarian remnant syndrome, so persistent or worsening symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Because post-hysterectomy pain has many possible causes, identifying the source early can help you get the right treatment faster and avoid unnecessary worry. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you clarify what's going on, understand possible conditions, and decide whether you need urgent care, a specialist visit, or self-monitoring at home.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

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After a hysterectomy, some people may notice pain in the lower right part of their abdomen. One common reason is nerve damage or irritation. During surgery, nerves in the pelvic area can sometimes be stretched or even slightly injured, leading to what is called neuropathic pain. This kind of pain can feel sharp, burning, or like an ache that does not go away easily. Another possible cause is the formation of scar tissue or adhesions. Adhesions are bands of tissue that connect organs that normally should not be linked. When they form, they can pull on other tissues and cause discomfort or pain. Additionally, problems with nearby organs or even a small hernia at the incision site might lead to pain in that area. If you're experiencing persistent pain after your procedure, you can check your symptoms to help identify potential causes. While these explanations are based on research about pain after hysterectomy, it is important to speak with a doctor to understand the specific reasons for pain in any individual case.

(References)

  • Brandsborg B, Nikolajsen L, Hansen CT, Kehlet H, Jensen TS. Risk factors for chronic pain after hysterectomy: a nationwide questionnaire and database study. Anesthesiology. 2007 May;106(5):1003-12. doi: 10.1097/01.anes.0000265161.39932.e8. PMID: 17457133.

  • Choi JB, Kang K, Song MK, Seok S, Kim YH, Kim JE. Pain Characteristics after Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy. Int J Med Sci. 2016 Jul 5;13(8):562-8. doi: 10.7150/ijms.15875. PMID: 27499688; PMCID: PMC4974904.

  • Brandsborg B, Nikolajsen L. Chronic pain after hysterectomy. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol. 2018 Jun;31(3):268-273. doi: 10.1097/ACO.0000000000000586. PMID: 29474214.

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