What is a inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia occurs when fat or a portion of the small intestine pushes through a weakness in the inguinal canal in the groin. It is the most common type of hernia, accounting for roughly two-thirds of all hernia repairs worldwide.
Common symptoms
- Bulge in the groin, more visible when standing, coughing, or straining
- Aching, heaviness, or burning sensation
- Discomfort when lifting, exercising, or at the end of the day
- Occasional radiation of discomfort into the scrotum or upper thigh
Risk factors
- Male sex
- Family history of hernia
- Chronic cough or constipation
- Heavy lifting or strain
- Prior abdominal surgery
- Smoking and connective tissue conditions
Typical treatment
Most symptomatic inguinal hernias are treated with surgical repair — open, laparoscopic, or robotic — typically with a mesh reinforcement. Watchful waiting may be reasonable for minimally symptomatic hernias in select patients, per current international guidelines.
Other hernia types
- Femoral Hernia — Tissue pushes into the femoral canal, below the inguinal ligament near the upper thigh.
- Umbilical Hernia — Tissue pushes through the abdominal wall at or near the belly button.
- Ventral Hernia — Any hernia along the midline of the abdomen, outside the umbilical or groin regions.
- Incisional Hernia — Hernia that develops through the scar of a previous surgical incision.
- Hiatal Hernia — Upper part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest.
- Recurrent Hernia — A hernia that returns at the site of a previous hernia repair.
Educational disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual recommendations require consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.