Dr. Kartik Kulshreshta,Consultant,Surgical Gastroenterology,Apollo Adlux Hospital
Hernias are a common medical condition, yet they are frequently misdiagnosed or overlooked in women. While traditionally associated with men, hernias in women present unique challenges that often lead to delayed or incorrect diagnoses. Hernia occurs when an organ or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Hernias in women are not as rare as they may seem, but they are often hidden behind a veil of misdiagnosis and neglect. It is time to break this cycle by increasing awareness, improving diagnostic tools, and encouraging women to take their symptoms seriously
The most common types of hernias include:
• Inguinal Hernia: Located in the groin, more common in men.
• Femoral Hernia: Found in the upper thigh, more common in women.
• Umbilical Hernia: Around the belly button.
• Hiatal Hernia: In the upper stomach area.
While hernias are often thought of as a men’s health issue, women are not immune to this condition. In fact, femoral hernias are more common in women, yet their symptoms are often misinterpreted as gynecological or digestive issues.
Why Are Hernias in Women Overlooked?
1. Atypical Symptoms
Hernias in women do not always present with the classic lump or bulge seen in men. Instead, women may experience:
o Chronic pelvic pain
o Groin discomfort
o Nausea or bowel irregularities
These symptoms can mimic conditions like ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or irritable bowel syndrome, leading to misdiagnosis.
2. Gender Bias in Diagnosis
Historically, medical research and diagnostic tools have focused more on male presentations of hernias. This bias can result in healthcare providers overlooking the possibility of hernias in women, especially in the absence of a visible bulge.
3. Complex Anatomy
The female anatomy, with its reproductive organs and pelvic structure, makes it more challenging to detect certain types of hernias. Femoral hernias, for instance, are often small and hidden deep in the groin, making them harder to identify through physical examination.
