When people think about hernias, they may picture a bulge, some discomfort, and sometimes surgery to help treat the hernia. For some patients, however, the experience goes beyond the physical. Living with a hernia can disrupt many parts of a person’s daily life, from limiting movement, and altering body image, to affecting relationships and triggering emotional stress and anxiety, among other things.
 

While some hernias can be painless, others can cause a dull ache, discomfort, pressure, or pain, especially during certain activities, like physical activity or even simple movements like bending or lifting. Everyday routines, like caring for kids, standing for long periods, or even simply going for a walk can become stressful or even impossible. Your healthcare provider may advise you to adjust your habits or the nature of your work to avoid straining the hernia.¹

Spending significant time sitting or lying down each day due to hernia pain and discomfort can have negative effects on your physical and mental health. This sudden sedentary lifestyle may increase chances of anxiety and depression.²  If you have frequent discomfort, you should see a doctor right away.
 

Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health conditions experienced by adults in the United States.³ A study on health-related quality of life for people dealing with abdominal wall hernias has shown that these patients experience a reduced quality of life, in addition to issues with mental health and body image.⁴  

Emotional impacts can include:^5,6

• Negative self-perception.
• Embarrassment due to visible bulging.
• Depression due to activity limitations.
• Anxiety about hernia surgery.
• Fear of making the hernia worse. 

Signs you may be experiencing depression or anxiety may include:⁴

• Feeling of a lost identity.
• Feeling guilty, worthless, or helpless.
• Feeling sad or anxious often or all the time.
• Struggling with self perception.
• Not wanting to do activities that used to be fun.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to contact your doctor.
 

Mental health is connected to physical health and chronic conditions, like hernias, and can take an emotional toll. Pain, loss of independence, uncertainty about the future, and a feeling a lack of control can all contribute to mental health issues that are just as real and important to address as the hernia itself. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
 

If you have a hernia, you may also have a decrease in physical connection to a partner. Based on your age, location of the hernia and the type of surgery you received, your doctor may instruct you to take it slow and not have sex for a few days or up to a few weeks. This will depend on several factors including the location and type of hernia, your age and general health, the type of surgery performed, and whether there were any complications during your procedure. Be sure to speak to your doctor as every patient is different.⁸ This lack of intimacy can also impact your mental and emotional health. A study has shown that 23% of people experiencing hernia pain are more likely to experience sexual problems, such as pain with orgasm, pain with erection, or the ability to achieve or maintain an erection,⁹ which may result in a decrease of intimacy. 

If you or someone you love is living with a hernia, here are some ways to support mental and emotional wellbeing:

• Talk to your doctor openly about any emotional struggles. Mental health is part of your health—and your healthcare provider needs to know the full picture.
• Ask about all of your treatment options, including newer innovations such as bioabsorbable mesh, that may address specific concerns about recovery or long-term outcomes. You can utilize our Doctor Discussion Guide to help start the conversation.
• Seek counseling or support groups. Talking with others who’ve been through the same experience can be empowering and validating.
• Focus on what you can do. Even limited movement or exercise can help ease anxiety and improve sleep and mood. It is important to talk to your doctor about the activities you can do and those you should avoid.
• Be kind to yourself. Living with a hernia isn’t easy. Recognize your effort and resilience even when things feel hard. 

While surgical repair can bring tremendous relief, emotional support, informed decision-making, and compassionate care should be part of every step along the way. You are not alone. You deserve to feel heard, understood, and supported—not just physically, but emotionally too. 

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.