INGUINAL HERNIA
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore our frequently asked questions (FAQs) about inguinal hernias, risk factors, treatment options and life after surgery.
What is an inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia happens when tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle wall near the groin. It often appears as a small lump and may cause discomfort, especially when coughing or lifting.⁴⁻⁵
How common are inguinal hernias in Australia?
Hernia repair is one of the most common surgical procedures in Australia, with around 90,000 to 100,000 operations performed each year. Inguinal hernias are the most common type, particularly in older men.¹⁻³
What causes inguinal hernias in men?
Inguinal hernias are often linked to a natural weakness in the groin area. They can also develop due to factors such as heavy lifting, long‑term coughing, weight gain, or ageing.⁴⁻⁵
What does an inguinal hernia feel like?
An inguinal hernia may feel like a dull ache, pressure, or heaviness in the groin. Some people notice a bulge that becomes more obvious when coughing or straining, while others may have no symptoms.⁵
Can an inguinal hernia affect daily activities or work?
An inguinal hernia can cause discomfort during activities such as lifting, bending, or standing for long periods. How much it affects you depends on the size of the hernia and your symptoms. A doctor can help assess this.⁵
Is it safe to exercise if I have an inguinal hernia?
Some light activity may be safe, but certain movements or heavy lifting can worsen symptoms. It’s best to speak with a doctor before continuing or starting an exercise routine if you have a hernia.⁵
Do inguinal hernias get worse over time?
Yes. Inguinal hernias do not repair themselves and may get larger or more uncomfortable over time if left untreated.⁴
What happens if an inguinal hernia is left untreated?
If left untreated, an inguinal hernia may become larger or cause increasing discomfort over time. In rare cases, it can lead to complications that require urgent medical care. Seeing a doctor early can help you understand your options.⁴⁻⁵
Can you live with an inguinal hernia without surgery?
Some people with mild symptoms may monitor their hernia without surgery for a period of time. This approach is known as watchful waiting. However, watchful waiting does not fix the hernia, and surgery may still be needed later.⁴
What are the treatment options for an inguinal hernia?
Treatment options depend on your symptoms and overall health. Some hernias may be monitored for a time, while others require surgery. Surgery is the only way to repair a hernia. Your doctor will help you decide what’s right for you.⁴
Is surgery the only way to fix an inguinal hernia?
Yes. Surgery is the only way to repair an inguinal hernia. Other approaches may help manage symptoms but do not fix the underlying weakness in the muscle wall.⁴
When should I see a doctor about a possible hernia?
You should see a doctor if you notice a lump in your groin, have ongoing discomfort, or if symptoms worsen. Early assessment can help you understand your options and plan the right care.⁵
When is an inguinal hernia an emergency?
An inguinal hernia is an emergency if it becomes stuck, very painful, or changes colour, or if you develop symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or inability to pass bowel motions. These symptoms can be serious and need urgent medical care. Call 000 or go to the nearest emergency department.⁵
References
- Medtronic Market Model Data on File. Internal analysis based on publicly available healthcare data, including Australian Institute of Health and Welfare admitted patient care statistics and MBS data.
- University of South Australia. 90,000 Australians go under the knife for hernia repair operations each year, with older men at highest risk. University of South Australia media release. 2024. https://unisa.edu.au/media-centre/Releases/2024/90000-australians-go-under-the-knife-for-hernia-repair-operations-each-year-with-older-men-at-highest-risk/
- Le TN, Afshar Ali M, Gadzhanova S, Lim R. Hernia repair prevalence by age and gender among the Australian adult population from 2017 to 2021. Critical Public Health. 2024. https://doi.org/10.1080/09581596.2024.2351981
- Stabilini C, van Veenendaal N, Aasvang E, et al. Update of the international HerniaSurge guidelines for groin hernia management. BJS Open. 2023;7(5):zrad080. doi:10.1093/bjsopen/zrad080
- Healthdirect Australia. Hernias. Last reviewed March 2024. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/hernias