An inguinal hernia occurs in the abdomen near the groin area. Hernias develop when fatty or intestinal tissue passes through a weakness in the abdominal wall near the right or left inguinal canal. The inguinal canal is an inclined slit. Each inguinal canal contains an upper wall, which is limited by the ends of the transverse and oblique abdominal muscles, a lower wall, closed by an inguinal ligament, back and front walls. In males, the testicles descend through the inguinal canal several weeks before birth. In women, the round ligament of the uterus passes through the inguinal canal. The inguinal canal forms a ring that is wider in men. This is all due to the fact that the spermatic cord takes up more volume than the ligament of the uterus. In addition, in the stronger half of the population, the testicle descends through it, which is why the structure of the inguinal canal is slightly different. Many inguinal hernia patients do not seek treatment for this type of hernia because it may be small and cause no symptoms. Timely treatment can help prevent further complications and discomfort. Inguinal hernias are most noticeable by their appearance. They cause a bulge in the pubic or groin area, which increases in size when patients take an upright position or begin to cough. This type of hernia can be tender and painful to the touch. Other symptoms include: Pain in the groin area when coughing Feeling of heaviness in the groin area Swelling of the scrotum in men For the occurrence of an inguinal hernia, only one specific reason cannot be given. However, weakness in the abdominal wall and groin muscles is thought to contribute significantly. The extra pressure on this area of ​​the body can eventually cause a hernia. A number of risk factors can increase the chances of a hernia occurring. These are heredity, past inguinal hernia, male gender, premature birth, overweight or obesity, pregnancy, cystic fibrosis, chronic rickets and chronic constipation. An inguinal hernia can be indirect or direct. Indirect inguinal hernia is the most common type. It is often observed in premature birth, before the closure of the inguinal canal. However, this type of hernia can occur at any stage of life. Direct inguinal hernia is most common with advancing age. Popular opinion is that the weakening of the abdominal muscles with advancing age leads to the appearance of a direct inguinal hernia. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, this type of hernia is much more common among males. You cannot always prevent the development of a hernia. Sometimes an existing hereditary condition or previous surgery allows a hernia to occur. Source: Hernia: Causes, Treatment, Types, Prevention, Symptoms & More (healthline.com)