Inguinal Hernia Repair

Inguinal hernias occur in the inguinal canal, which is a natural passageway in the lower abdomen above the groin. On this page, we will explain what they are and how they are treated.

What are inguinal hernias?

When you have an inguinal hernia, tissue from inside your abdomen pokes through a weak spot of the inguinal canal. The inguinal canal is a natural passageway in the lower abdomen just above the groin. This area can weaken over time and if the muscles there give way under strain, it can result in an inguinal hernia.

Inguinal hernias are quite common. They are more prevalent in men, due to the way the male testicles descend through the inguinal canal during development, leaving a naturally weaker area in the abdominal wall.

A previous hernia,chronic coughing, obesity, a premature birth, heavy lifting and straining during bowel movements are factors that can increase the risk of developing an inguinal hernia.