Inguinal hernia/Femoral hernia

Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia in humans. Approximately one in four men will suffer from an inguinal hernia during their lifetime. There are two peak age ranges, in young men up to approx. 20 years old, and in older men from approx. 50 years old. Women have a far lower risk of developing an inguinal hernia. However, women are more likely to develop what is known as a femoral hernia (this is when the hernial orifice is located below the inguinal ligament). This type of hernia has a high likelihood of incarceration and should be operated on as quickly as possible.