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Groin Hernia—Child

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Groin Hernia—Child

(Hernia, Groin—Child; Hernia, Inguinal—Child; Inguinal Hernia—Child)

Definition

A groin hernia happens when soft tissue pushes through a weak spot in the wall of the belly. Sometimes the tissue also passes down a canal that links the scrotum to the belly area. It is called the inguinal canal.

Inguinal Hernias.

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Causes

This may be caused by:

  • A large inguinal canal
  • A weakened area in the lower belly muscles

Risk Factors

Groin hernias are more common in boys. They are also more common in babies who are born very early.

Symptoms

The most common symptom is a bulge in the groin. It may be easier to see this bulge when a child is crying. The child may also show signs of pain.

Hernias can sometimes get caught in the belly wall. This is called a strangulated hernia. Symptoms may be:

A strangulated hernia is an emergency that needs medical care right away.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. This is often enough to make the diagnosis.

Images may be taken if the diagnosis is not clear. This can be done with an ultrasound.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to fix the weak spot in the belly wall and get the soft tissue back to where it belongs. This is done with surgery. Babies born very early may not have surgery until later.

Prevention

Groin hernias cannot be prevented.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Groin hernia in children. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/groin-hernia-in-children.
  • Inguinal hernia. Cincinnati Children’s website. Available at: http://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/i/inguinal-hernia.
  • Yeap, E., Nataraja, R.M., and Pacilli, M. Inguinal hernias in children. Australian Journal of General Practice, 2020; 49 (1-2): 38-43.

Contributors

  • Chelsea Skucek, MSN, BS, RNC-NIC
Last Updated:
2022-08-01

(C) Copyright 2022 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.