You describe cramps, not unlike menstrual cramps, after masturbation. Orgasm includes contraction of pelvic floor muscles, and it sounds like you're experiencing some spasms of those muscles. Radical hysterectomies often require tissue removal or dissection surrounding the uterus and ovaries. It's likely your spasms are caused within nerves and muscles that are still healing.
I suspect this will improve with continued healing, but using an anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen may help relieve the pain. If, three months or so after surgery, when most healing has taken place, the spasms and pain persist, a consultation with a pelvic floor physical therapist may be helpful. They can assess the muscles and nerves of the pelvic floor and often remedy persistent pain.
Continue that healing work! I'm hopeful the pain will resolve itself.
Dr. Barb DePree, M.D., has been a gynecologist and women’s health provider for almost 30 years and a menopause care specialist for the past ten.
41 comments
Elena, a new symptom-like cramping-is something to discuss with your provider. If you are still experiencing cramping please do contact your doctor’s office.
I had a hysterectomy in March 2012 & the last 2 days I’ve had cramps sometimes very sharp cramps almost like a Contraction. Is that normal? I’ve had not one cramp in the last 9 years since the surgery. I’m 52yrs old & my husband & I are still very active sexually & never experienced this before. Thank you
Erica, it is not entirely uncommon to experience cramping, but as with any new symptoms, it is best to bring it to your provider’s attention.
I had a total hysterectomy September 2020. In the last few days I’ve started cramping. Today it has gotten worse. I have noticed my legs are achy and pull as they did before I were to start my period. Is the cramping normal or should I be concerned?
I had a hysterectomy 4.5 years ago. Today I started having really bad cramps as I was about to have my menstrual. I went to use the bathroom wipe my vagina afterwards and seen light blood got stressed and went into my vaginal to confirm and it was bright red. Went back 30 minutes used the bathroom and no blood. But I am still
Cramping afterwards. Have an appointment at 11:20