Health
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is a Groin Hernia?

Susan Grindstaff
Susan Grindstaff

A groin hernia, also called an inguinal hernia, is a medical problem that develops when a part of the intestine bulges through a portion of the abdominal wall in the groin. These hernias typically occur in an area of the abdomen where the muscles have weakened or torn. In some cases, the hernia may only consist of a bulge of fat from the stomach lining, rather than the intestine, but this is considered less common.

There are two different types of groin hernias: indirect and direct. Indirect groin hernias are hernias that people are born with. Direct groin hernias are the result of injury or a general breakdown of the muscles in the groin. It is believed that only males can get groin hernias later in life, though either males or females can be born with the condition.

A groin injury may be sustained while playing sports.
A groin injury may be sustained while playing sports.

Males are much more likely to develop a groin hernia while in the womb than female babies. While in the womb, the umbilical cord puts pressure on the groin area of male embryos, weakening that part of the abdomen. The trauma of passing through the birth canal often causes the stomach muscles to tear and a hernia to form. Birth related hernias can occur in females as well, but due to the way the umbilical cord attaches to their stomach, it is not as likely. Babies who are premature are considered at higher risk for a groin hernia, because their muscles may not be fully strengthened.

Coughing, lifting heavy objects, and the strain that comes from frequent constipation are just a few of the things that strain the abdominal and groin muscles.
Coughing, lifting heavy objects, and the strain that comes from frequent constipation are just a few of the things that strain the abdominal and groin muscles.

Groin hernias often result from work or sports injuries, though many activities that put excessive strain on abdominal or stomach muscles may be causative. Coughing, lifting heavy objects, and the strain that comes from frequent constipation are just a few of the things that strain the abdominal and groin muscles. People who are obese are also considered at higher risk for a groin hernia. When a person is overweight, they sometimes carry a great deal of fat in their stomach area. This excess fat puts added strain on muscles and the small intestine, both of which can lead to a groin hernia.

Excess fat in the stomach area puts added strain on muscles and the small intestine, which can lead to a groin hernia.
Excess fat in the stomach area puts added strain on muscles and the small intestine, which can lead to a groin hernia.

Treatment for groin hernias usually requires surgery. The surgery involves putting the protrusion back into the groin cavity and strengthening the stomach muscles by adding mesh. Recovery can be painful, and in cases of larger incisions, could require several weeks of restricted activity. Some patients may require medication to lessen the pain during the healing process.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A groin injury may be sustained while playing sports.
      By: Paco Ayala
      A groin injury may be sustained while playing sports.
    • Coughing, lifting heavy objects, and the strain that comes from frequent constipation are just a few of the things that strain the abdominal and groin muscles.
      By: lusielia
      Coughing, lifting heavy objects, and the strain that comes from frequent constipation are just a few of the things that strain the abdominal and groin muscles.
    • Excess fat in the stomach area puts added strain on muscles and the small intestine, which can lead to a groin hernia.
      By: ohmega1982
      Excess fat in the stomach area puts added strain on muscles and the small intestine, which can lead to a groin hernia.
    • Treatment for a groin hernia usually involves surgery.
      By: dacasdo
      Treatment for a groin hernia usually involves surgery.
    • Hard coughing may lead to the development of a hernia.
      By: Lisa F. Young
      Hard coughing may lead to the development of a hernia.
    • It is believed that only males can get groin hernias later in life.
      By: Photographee.eu
      It is believed that only males can get groin hernias later in life.
    • Overweight individuals may be susceptible to groin hernias.
      By: Eugenio Marongiu
      Overweight individuals may be susceptible to groin hernias.
    • A groin hernia develops when a part of the intestine bulges through a portion of the abdominal wall.
      By: graphicgeoff
      A groin hernia develops when a part of the intestine bulges through a portion of the abdominal wall.