After hernia repair
Pain after hernia surgery
Most people experience discomfort after hernia surgery. This page explains what is normal, how pain usually changes over time, and when pain should be reviewed.
What pain is normal?
Normal postoperative pain improves gradually.
Common sensations
- Bruising and swelling
- Aching or soreness at incision sites
- Tight or pulling sensations
- Brief sharp twinges
Things that can worsen pain
- Overdoing activity early
- Coughing or straining
- Constipation
- Prolonged sitting
Helpful measures
- Gentle walking
- Gradual return to activity
- Keeping bowels soft
- Analgesia as advised
Expected recovery timeline
Exact recovery varies, but these are common patterns.
Days 1–7
- Bruising and swelling
- Incisional pain
- Movement-related discomfort
Weeks 2–6
- Gradual improvement
- Tightness may persist
- Activity flares usually settle
Weeks 6–12
- Return to most activities
- Occasional discomfort with exertion
Beyond 3 months
- Persistent pain deserves review
- Consider nerve or mechanical causes
See chronic groin pain and nerve pain.
Red flags
Seek urgent medical assessment if any of these occur.
Possible infection
- Fever or chills
- Increasing redness or warmth
- Wound discharge
Other urgent concerns
- Sudden severe groin or scrotal pain
- Vomiting or abdominal distension
- Hard, tender, non-reducible lump
When should pain be reviewed?
- No improvement after 6–8 weeks
- Burning or shooting pain
- Pain affecting sleep or work
- Return of pre-operative symptoms
If pain is ongoing or concerning, review by a clinician experienced in post-hernia pain is appropriate.
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