6 Main Types of Hernia

A hernia is the protrusion of a body organ through a rupture or fissure in a wall of smooth muscle. Most hernias are abdominal hernias. They are typically observable as bulges in the groin or part of the abdomen. Hernias do not always show serious symptoms, but some can be life-threatening.

The following are the 6 main types of hernia:

Inguinal Hernia

An inguinal hernia [1] happens when a small part of the bowel pushes into the groin through the inguinal canal. The inguinal canal is an opening in the muscle of the abdominal wall. The protrusion may be a small part of the intestine or may contain tissue lining the wall of the abdomen.

An inguinal hernia may be direct or indirect. Direct inguinal hernia pushes through a weak spot in the muscle of the abdominal wall. The precise cause is unknown but activities that strain these muscles like weightlifting, coughing or straining during bowel movements may cause it. It can also happen because of pregnancy.

Indirect inguinal hernias are more common and happen due to incomplete closure of the inguinal canal before birth. The hernia may occur at any stage of life. It is more common in men [2], where it may push out through the scrotum. It can also appear near the opening of a woman’s vagina.

Inguinal hernias may be painful and tend to worsen when you cough or bend. Surgery is the only way to repair it.