Definition of a Hernia and 

Location of Hernias

A hernia or rupture is defined as the protrusion of an internal organ through a normal or abnormal opening in the body wall. Most hernias occur in the abdominal wall through congenital or acquired defects. Congenital defects are openings in the body from the time of birth which fail to close or re-open over a period of time. Acquired defects occur after vigorous straining or injury after which tears or defects appear. Examples of congenital hernias appear in the groin and umbilicus (navel). Acquired defects appear in different sites in the groin, flank, and old surgical incisions. Inguinal hernias or groin hernias are the most common hernias in men and women. Men are more likely to develop hernias than women. A hernia does not get better over time, nor will it go away by itself. The common sites where hernias occur are in the groin (inguinal), belly button (umbilical), femoral (thigh), the site of a previous operation (incisional), and hiatus hernia (diaphragm). Groin and femoral hernias can occur on both sides simultaneously. This is termed "bilateral" hernias.