According to the National Center for Health Statistics, over five million people in the United States suffer from hernias annually.1 While hernias are common in both men and women, women tend to show symptoms differently from men.2
Hernias in women tend to be smaller and deeper than male hernias and typically do not have a telltale bulge. Rather, female hernias can cause chronic, deep pelvic pain and occasional sharp, stabbing pain that comes on quickly and lingers.2 Because of the female anatomy, chronic pelvic pain in women is often misdiagnosed as something other than a hernia—like uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or ovarian cysts.3
Hernia Pain in Women
Most Common Hernias in Women5
Generally speaking, inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia and they usually occur in men. However, most other types of hernias tend to affect women more than men, including:
What Does a Hernia Feel Like for a Woman?6
Any type of pain is worth a visit to your healthcare provider. If you think you’re dealing with hernia pain, it’s important to have a healthcare provider diagnose whether your pain is related to a hernia or another condition. Should you experience symptoms including fever, nausea and vomiting, seek medical attention right away.
The guidance provided in this article follows general rules that should be discussed with your doctor. This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not substitute for medical advice. If in doubt, always consult your doctor.
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