Weak spots can develop in the layer of muscle in your abdominal wall, resulting in the contents of your abdomen pushing through. This produces a lump called a hernia (see figure 1).

An inguinal hernia happens at the inguinal canal. This is a narrow passage in which blood vessels supplying your testicle pass through your abdominal wall.

A hernia can be dangerous because your intestines or other structures within your abdomen can get trapped and have their blood supply cut off (strangulated hernia).

Inguinal hernias can be repaired using keyhole surgery.

You can sometimes control the hernia with a truss (padded support belt) or simply leave it alone. It will not get better without surgery.

How Soon Will I Recover?

You should be able to go home the same day. Increase how much you walk around over the first few days.

You should be able to return to work after two to four weeks, depending on the extent of surgery and your type of work.

Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.

The hernia can come back.

For more information on a Private Haemorrhoid banding procedure, call New Victoria Hospital on 020 8949 9020 or use our contact form.

An inguinal hernia is a common condition caused by a weakness in your abdominal wall, near the inguinal canal. If left untreated, an inguinal hernia can cause serious complications.