A hernia is when an internal part of the body, such as an organ, pushes through a weakness in the muscle or surrounding tissue wall.
What is an inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia (pronounced "ingwanal") is the most common type of hernia. It occurs when part of your bowel pokes through into your groin.
The bowel pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle wall (abdominal wall). The weak area is called the inguinal canal, a channel through which your blood vessels pass.
Inguinal hernias occur mainly in men. Most are thought to be due to ageing - as you get older, the muscles surrounding your abdomen can become weaker (see Health A-Z: hernia).
The hernia can appear as a swelling in your groin or as an enlarged scrotum (pouch containing the testes), which may be painful. The swelling often disappears when you lie down.
Repairing the inguinal hernia
An inguinal hernia repair is an operation to push the bulge back into place and to strengthen the abdominal wall.
The operation is necessary as, if left untreated, the herniated tissue can get trapped and have its blood supply cut off (known as a strangulated hernia). Emergency surgery within hours is essential to release the trapped tissue and restore its blood supply so it does not die.
Outlook
Inguinal hernia repair is a routine operation with very few risks. Without an operation, the hernia will get bigger, become more painful and could lead to complications, such as a strangulated hernia.
Surgery will get rid of the hernia and prevent you from having any serious complications.
After having the operation, you should be able to go home the same day or the day after.
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