Inguinal Hernia in Women, While inguinal hernias are more common in men, they can and do occur in women as well. However, because they’re less frequent in females, they are often misdiagnosed or overlooked. As a result, many women endure discomfort for longer than necessary. Today, let’s understand what an inguinal hernia in women looks like, how to identify it, and when to seek treatment.
What Is an Inguinal Hernia in women?
An inguinal hernia happens when tissue, such as part of the intestine, pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. In women, this hernia usually presents as a bulge in the groin area. Though small hernias might not cause symptoms initially, they often grow and lead to pain or other complications if left untreated.
Symptoms in Females
Unlike in men, where a visible bulge is typical, women may experience more subtle symptoms. These include:
- Chronic pelvic discomfort
- A heavy or dragging sensation in the groin
- Pain that worsens with physical activity
- A soft lump that appears while coughing or standing
Because these symptoms can mimic other conditions like ovarian cysts or pelvic inflammation, proper diagnosis is essential.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors increase the risk of developing an inguinal hernia in women:
- Pregnancy, due to abdominal pressure
- Chronic coughing or constipation
- Heavy lifting without proper technique
- Genetic predisposition to weak connective tissue
Additionally, women with previous abdominal surgeries may have a higher risk.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Once a hernia is suspected, physical examination and imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI confirm the diagnosis. In most cases, surgical repair is the recommended solution. At our center, we often opt for laparoscopic hernia repair, which offers quicker recovery, less post-op pain, and minimal scarring.
Dr. Nayar’s Approach
Recently, I treated a middle-aged female patient who had been experiencing lower abdominal pain and discomfort for months. After careful evaluation, we diagnosed her with a right-sided inguinal hernia. We performed a laparoscopic mesh repair, which allowed her to return to her routine in just a few days. With early diagnosis and the right surgical method, outcomes like these are very achievable.
When to See a Doctor
If you’re a woman experiencing unexplained groin pain, don’t dismiss it. Consult a specialist to rule out the possibility of an inguinal hernia. The earlier we intervene, the smoother the recovery.