Pain on the right side of the groin or pelvic area often stems from strain in the muscles or ligaments or a health issue related to the reproductive organs or the lower digestive tract, but there may be other causes.

The groin includes the pelvis, reproductive organs, and the muscles that stabilize the hips and pelvis. Pain in this area could indicate a strain or injury, an ovarian cyst, appendicitis, and more.

This article lists potential causes of pain in the right side of the groin and explains when to seek professional care.

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Sometimes, right-sided groin pain results from an injury to a muscle in the hip, groin, or lower abdomen. A common cause of this pain is an injury to one or more adductor muscles in the inner thigh.

Someone might strain or injure one of these muscles due to a fall or an activity that twists the body into an unusual position.

The pain can be severe and worsen with movement.

Treatment

A doctor may recommend:

If the injury is severe, physical therapy or surgery may be necessary.

Tiny, fluid-filled sacs can form in one or both ovaries. These sacs, called ovarian cysts, are common and typically form during ovulation.

Most ovarian cysts resolve without medical intervention, and most people who have them are unaware of them.

However, if the cysts are large, they can push against the bladder or bowel, causing swelling, a sensation of pressure, and pain during urination.

Some ovarian cysts can also cause dull pain in the lower abdomen, and if a cyst ruptures, it can cause sudden pain.

In some cases, a cyst forms around the ovary. This can cause the ovary to twist. This is a dangerous issue called ovarian torsion, which can cause severe pain, nausea, vomiting, and a high pulse.

Treatment

Most ovarian cysts do not require treatment or surgery. If the pain is dull, over-the-counter medication, such as NSAIDs, can help.

For some people, doctors prescribe stronger pain relief medication or birth control to help prevent ovulation and the development of ovarian cysts.

A person may need surgery if an ovarian cyst:

  • remains for an extended period
  • becomes larger
  • causes pain that is difficult to manage

If pain in the abdomen or groin is intense or accompanies a fever, a racing heart, or weakness, seek emergency medical care. This can indicate a twisted ovary, in which case surgery is necessary.

Problems with the pelvic floor muscles can cause various symptoms, including groin or hip pain.

Pelvic floor disorders can develop when the muscles and connective tissue in the area weaken. Various factors, including childbirth, older age, surgery, or obesity, can cause this.

There are many of these disorders, and their symptoms vary, but potential symptoms include:

Treatment

Pelvic floor physical therapy, including exercises, can help. Sometimes, people also require surgery to repair damaged tissue.

Overall, the right treatment approach depends on the type of pelvic floor disorder. People can speak with their healthcare team to understand the best option for them.

Appendicitis refers to inflammation and infection of the appendix.

People first feel pain near the belly button. The pain later extends to the lower right side of the abdomen, just above the hips and groin.

The pain can begin suddenly and worsen when the person moves, takes a deep breath, or sneezes.

Other symptoms may include:

Treatment

If someone with appendicitis does not receive treatment, the appendix can rupture, causing bleeding, damage to the intestines, and death.

For most cases of appendicitis, doctors recommend surgery to remove the appendix.

During pregnancy, the expanding uterus puts pressure on the lower half of the body, including the soft tissue that supports the pelvis.

Two types of pregnancy-related muscle pain include symphysis pubic dysfunction (SPD) and round ligament pain.

These issues usually resolve after delivery. Neither indicates a problem with the pregnancy or requires a change to the birth plan.

Round ligament pain

Round ligament pain occurs when the growing uterus strains the ligaments that secure the uterus to the pelvis. These round ligaments run on either side of the uterus.

The pain may be sudden, very sharp, and stabbing. It may arise when the person changes position or climbs the stairs. The issue can also cause a “pulling” sensation within the abdomen.

Although it is possible in people who are not pregnant, it is uncommon.

The pain is typically temporary and resolves with rest. To ease it, people can:

  • take acetaminophen, which is safe during pregnancy
  • use a warm compress
  • avoid prolonged standing
  • avoid heavy lifting
  • perform daily stretches

SPD

SPD is also called pelvic girdle pain. It occurs when the growing uterus destabilizes the pelvic muscles and ligaments. SPD affects 1 in 5 pregnancies. It can cause deep shooting or stabbing pain in the groin, vagina, rectum, or stomach.

Other symptoms can include:

  • pain that radiates into the back, lower abdomen, groin, perineum, thigh, and leg
  • pain when moving
  • pain while walking upstairs, rising from a chair, or bending forward
  • fatigue
  • pain during sex

SPD typically resolves after childbirth, but in the meantime, a doctor may recommend certain exercises and stretches. Using supportive equipment, such as pelvic blocks or pregnancy support belts, may also help.

Intense, persistent pain counts as a medical emergency, especially if it stems from a ruptured or twisted ovarian cyst or appendicitis.

If groin pain is mild, people can:

A doctor may be able to diagnose the cause of right-sided groin pain from the person’s symptoms and medical history.

When the reason is unclear, a healthcare professional may recommend:

People should receive medical care for pain that:

  • is severe
  • gets steadily worse
  • does not improve with home treatments
  • interferes with daily functioning

It is important for pregnant people to mention any new or persistent symptoms at their next appointment with a doctor or midwife, even if symptoms improve or are not severe.

People should seek emergency care if the pain:

  • is intense or unmanageable
  • accompanies bleeding from the vagina in pregnant people
  • accompanies a fever, chills, or muscle aches
  • accompanies vomiting or diarrhea

Causes of right-sided groin pain can range from a pulled muscle to a health issue that requires emergency attention, such as ovarian torsion or appendicitis.

Overall, if the pain is severe, a person should seek professional care right away. Usually, a doctor can diagnose the issue after carefully considering all symptoms and the person’s medical history.

If the pain is mild, home management strategies, such as pain relief medications, rest, and a warm compress, may relieve symptoms.