Ongoing Abdominal Pain After Abdominal Surgery

Knowing when to see your GP

Why abdominal pain can linger

Abdominal surgery affects skin, muscle, nerves, and internal organs. Even after the incision heals, deeper tissues continue to recover. It is common to notice aching, pulling, bloating, or sensitivity as scar tissue forms and organs settle back into normal movement. Changes in bowel habits, appetite, and activity also influence how the abdomen feels during recovery.

What recovery discomfort often feels like

Early recovery pain usually improves gradually over weeks. Many people describe soreness with movement, stretching, coughing, or bowel motions. Intermittent cramping, bloating, or altered bowel patterns can occur as digestion normalises, particularly after bowel or gynaecological surgery. Good and slower days are common, especially as activity increases.

When pain patterns raise concern

Pain that does not steadily improve, or that worsens after initial recovery, deserves review. Persistent pain at rest, severe cramping, sharp or stabbing pain, increasing night pain, or pain associated with vomiting are not typical recovery features. Pain that localises to one area, radiates to the back or shoulder, or suddenly changes character also warrants assessment.

Symptoms that should not be ignored

Fever, increasing abdominal swelling, redness or discharge from the wound, ongoing nausea, inability to pass wind or stool, black or bloody stools, or worsening bloating can signal complications. New urinary symptoms, breathlessness, or chest pain also require prompt review, as abdominal surgery can affect more than the surgical site alone.

Common non-surgical contributors

Not all post-operative abdominal pain comes directly from the operation. Constipation, medication effects, reflux, muscle strain, nerve irritation, or flare-ups of pre-existing digestive conditions can all contribute. Anxiety, sleep disruption, and reduced movement also influence pain perception during recovery.

How your GP helps

Your GP reviews the type of surgery, timing of symptoms, medications, bowel patterns, and your overall health. They examine the abdomen, assess wound healing, and decide whether tests or imaging are needed. Your GP can also coordinate care with your surgeon, adjust medications, support bowel recovery, and provide reassurance when healing is progressing as expected.

When to book a GP review

Arrange a GP appointment if abdominal pain persists beyond expected recovery timeframes, limits daily activities, or causes concern. Early review supports safer recovery and helps identify issues before they become more serious.

This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.