Incision Pain at 3 Weeks Post-Hysterectomy: Normal Healing vs. Complications
- Normal tissue healing: Inflammatory response causes mild swelling/discomfort; eases over time.
- Nerve irritation: Surgical manipulation → sharp, shooting, burning pain; may persist months.
- Infection: Increased pain, redness, swelling, purulent/serosanguinous drainage. ACOG urges immediate contact if fever/worsening.
- Hematoma: Localized blood collection → pain/tenderness; usually resolves, may need drainage if enlarging.
- Serous fluid collection: Serum/blood around incision → swelling/mild pain; subsides in days‑week.
- Sutures/staples: Discomfort during healing, especially with skin stretching or removal.
If pain intensifies, fever, redness, discharge, or persistent discomfort beyond normal healing → contact surgeon/PCP promptly.
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