Lower abdominal and pelvic hernias present differently in women than men, who typically have a visible bulge.
Instead, female hernias tend to be smaller, deeper, and less noticeable.
Hernias can also cause chronic pelvic pressure or pain that can be mistaken for gynecological problems.
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This article discusses hernias in women.
It details female hernia symptoms and how hernias in women are diagnosed.
What Does a Hernia Feel Like for a Woman?
Hernia pain tends to worsen with exercise, coughing, laughing, or straining to defecate.
Many women find hernia pain increases during their period.
If this gets trapped (strangulated), it can cause tissue death.
Strangulated hernias are a medical emergency.
Types of Hernias in Women
Hernias can occur anywhere on the abdominal wall.
In women, hernias in the lower abdomen or groin are typically indirect inguinal hernias.
Types of hernias that are more common in pregnancy include:
Umbilical hernias are the most common.
But only about 0.08% of pregnant people get them.
How Are Hernias Diagnosed in Females?
A hernia diagnosis is generally made with a physical exam and possibly imaging studies.
A hernia often worsens over time and may eventually require surgery.
Surgery may be needed to repair the weak area of the abdominal wall and relieve hernia symptoms.
Hernia repair surgery is typically performed as alaparoscopic surgery.Most people heal quickly from this surgery.
You may be back to your regular activities in a week or two.
Summary
Hernias are weak areas of the abdominal wall.
The weakness lets organs protrude through it.
In females, hernias are often smaller and deeper without a noticeable lump.
However, hernia symptoms also mimic gynecological issues, so misdiagnoses are common.
Be specific about your pain and what makes it worse.
Describing your symptom history, a physical exam, and imaging tests can get you diagnosed correctly.
Treatment usually involves pain medicine, physical therapy, or surgery.
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