Groin hernia

How does a groin hernia occur?

Anatomical conditions are the main reason for the development of a groin hernia. This involves a natural weakening of the abdominal wall in the inguinal region: In the embryonic stage, the testicles are created in the abdominal cavity and descend diagonally through the groin region – resulting in natural weakening. In women, only the delicate ligament of the uterus pulls through. That is why men are affected nine times more often. Approximately a quarter of all patients have groin hernias on both sides.

Groin hernia – causes: What factors contribute to a groin hernia?

One risk factor is the decrease in the strength of connective tissue and abdominal wall muscles as age increases. Heavy lifting and carrying, chronic coughing, sneezing and intense pressing during bowel movements often play a role. This results in increased pressure in the abdominal cavity, which then leads to a hernia.

Signs – groin hernia: These symptoms can occur

At the beginning, there is usually a swelling in the groin region, which is only noticed by the patient when ‘dragging’ pain also occurs. However, about one third of all those affected have no symptoms. Over time, a hernia can take on clearly visible proportions. It becomes a problem if part of the intestine becomes trapped in the hernia gap, i.e. it can no longer be moved back into the abdominal cavity. This happens extremely rarely, but is very dangerous. The intestine can then no longer transport its contents, resulting in intestinal obstruction. In addition, the intestinal wall is less well supplied with blood, which can lead to peritonitis.