What is groin pain or swelling?

Groin pain refers to discomfort or pain in the area where your stomach ends and your legs begin.

Your groin can be hurt when muscles, tendons and ligaments in the area are over-stretched or 'pulled' (strained). Occasionally, nerve damage in your lower back can cause groin pain.

If the glands in your groin are swollen, you might have an infection or inflamed area in your leg.

What symptoms are related to groin pain or swelling?

Symptoms include:

• pain when moving your hip
• walking with a limp because of pain
• a tender groin
• a lump that forms in your groin

What causes groin pain or swelling?

The most common causes of groin pain or swelling are:

• a groin injury or groin strain from sports or exercise
• a groin irritation or infection
• swollen lymph nodes (swollen glands)
• a hernia

Sometimes groin pain is caused by something else. It may be a:

• bone injury or stress fracture
• kidney stone
• problem with your testicles
• pinched nerve or sciatica

How is the cause of groin pain or swelling diagnosed?

Your doctor will talk to you about your symptoms and will examine the area.

Imaging scans may sometimes be needed, such as an:

• x-ray
• ultrasound scan
• MRI scan

When should I see my doctor?

Most groin pain or swelling will go away by itself. See your doctor if you are concerned or if:

• you have very severe pain
• the pain doesn't improve after a few days
• there's a lump or swelling in your testicle
• there is a lump in your groin
• you have pain in your abdomen
• you think you have a hernia

When to seek urgent care

Go to the emergency department if you have:

• severe pain (and swelling) in your testicles that happens very quickly
• groin pain plus fever or blood in your urine
• a painful groin swelling with nausea and vomiting

How is groin pain or swelling treated?

Groin injuries usually get better by themselves, but this might take several weeks.

Your treatment will depend on the cause of your groin pain or swelling.

Self-care at home

Self-care will depend on the cause of your groin pain or swelling.

Here are some tips to help relieve symptoms caused by a groin injury:

• You should avoid bending and lifting things until you see your doctor.
• Avoid any activity that may be causing the pain or swelling, or makes your symptoms reappear.
• You should also avoid any strenuous activity for 2 to 3 days after your symptoms have gone.
• Avoid wearing tight clothing around the painful or swollen area.
• If you are in pain, get advice from your doctor or pharmacist on medicines you can take.

An ice pack may help ease discomfort and relieve swelling in some cases. Ice packs should not be placed directly on your skin. They should be wrapped in a clean cloth to avoid injuring your skin. Do not use an ice pack for more than 20 minutes at a time. Ice packs can be re-applied every 2 to 3 hours.

Medicines for groin pain or swelling

Some medicines can help manage groin pain:

• Paracetamol — this can be very effective at relieving your pain. Do not take more than the daily dose listed on the package. Speak to your doctor if paracetamol is not managing your pain.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) — medicines such as ibuprofen and diclofenac may also help you manage your pain. Try to take them at the lowest possible dosage for the shortest possible time, as they can cause serious side effects.

Can groin pain or swelling be prevented?

You can help prevent groin pain due to muscle strains by doing exercises that focus on your core strength and flexibility. Visit a physiotherapist for advice.

Resources and support

You can call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.