the most common location for hernias is the groin (or inguinal) area. there are several reasons for this tendency. first there is a natural anatomical weakness in the groin region which results from incomplete muscle coverage. second the upright position of human posture results in a greater force pushing toward the bottom of the abdomen thereby increasing the stress on these weaker tissues. the combination of these factors over time breaks down the support tissues enlarging any preexisting hole or leads to a tear resulting in a new hole. several different types of hernia may occur and frequently coexist in the groin area. these include indirect direct and femoral hernias which are defined by the location of the opening of the hernia from the abdomen to the groin. another type of hernia called a ventral hernia occurs in the midline of the abdomen usually above the navel (umbilicus). this type of hernia is usually painless. hernias can also occur within the navel (umbilical hernia).
where are hernias located?