When people think of hernia, they usually picture men. But hernias in women are more common than most people realize — and they are frequently misdiagnosed because the symptoms are different and the bulge may not always be visible. This delay in diagnosis leads to unnecessary pain and sometimes serious complications.
What is a hernia?
A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. In women, the most common types are femoral hernia (in the upper thigh area), inguinal hernia (in the groin), umbilical hernia (around the belly button), and incisional hernia (at a previous surgery site).
Why is hernia often missed in women?
In men, hernias typically produce a noticeable bulge in the groin. In women, the hernia is often smaller and deeper — meaning no visible lump. Instead, women may experience:
- Chronic pelvic or groin pain with no clear cause
- Pain that worsens when standing, walking, or exercising
- Discomfort that is mistaken for gynecological issues
- A pulling or burning sensation in the lower abdomen
- Pain during menstruation that is actually hernia-related
I have seen many women referred from gynecology departments who were actually suffering from a femoral hernia. A proper surgical examination quickly identifies the real cause and ends years of unexplained pain.
When does hernia need surgery?
Not all hernias need immediate surgery, but most do require repair eventually. Surgery is recommended when the hernia is causing pain, growing in size, affecting daily activities, or at risk of becoming strangulated (cutting off blood supply — a medical emergency).
How is hernia repaired?
At our clinic, we perform both laparoscopic and open hernia repair depending on the type and size. Laparoscopic repair is preferred for most cases — it uses small cuts, requires shorter recovery, and produces excellent results. A surgical mesh is used to reinforce the weak area and prevent recurrence.
What is recovery like?
For laparoscopic hernia repair, most patients return home the same day or after one night. Light activities can resume within a few days, and full recovery typically takes 2–3 weeks. Long-term recurrence rate with mesh repair is very low.
What should you do if you suspect a hernia?
Do not wait for the pain to become unbearable. Book a consultation with Dr. Nain Sukh at Wah International Hospital, Taxila. A physical examination and simple ultrasound are usually all that is needed to confirm the diagnosis and plan the right treatment.
