A femoral hernia is a type of hernia that develops in the groin when fatty tissue or part of the intestine pushes through a weakness in the abdominal wall and into the femoral canal.
Femoral hernias are relatively uncommon, accounting for around 2% of all hernias and approximately 6% of groin hernias. Unlike inguinal hernias, femoral hernias occur more frequently in women. Around 70% of cases affect women, which is why they are sometimes referred to as a female hernia.
Although less common than other types of hernia, femoral hernias carry a higher risk of complications and should be assessed promptly by a specialist.
Where does this type of hernia occur?
A femoral hernia develops in the femoral canal, a small passage just below the groin crease. Because this area sits lower than the inguinal canal, the swelling often appears very low in the groin or at the top of the thigh.
Femoral hernias are sometimes mistaken for inguinal hernias because of their similar location.
Signs and symptoms
Many patients experience very few symptoms in the early stages.
Common symptoms can include:
- A small lump or swelling in the groin or upper thigh
- Mild discomfort or aching
- Tenderness around the swelling
- Symptoms that worsen when standing, straining or lifting
- Abdominal pain if complications develop
Some femoral hernias cause little discomfort until they become trapped.
Why are they considered dangerous?
Femoral hernias have a higher risk of complications than many other hernia types because the femoral canal is narrow and rigid.
This means the hernia can become trapped, known as an incarcerated hernia. If the blood supply becomes restricted, a strangulated hernia can develop.
Symptoms of a strangulated hernia may include:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- A hard, tender lump
- Inability to push the hernia back in
If part of the intestine becomes trapped, emergency surgery may be required.
Almost half of all femoral hernias first come to light as emergencies, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
Should a femoral hernia be repaired?
Yes. Femoral hernias do not improve on their own and should generally be repaired early. Delaying treatment increases the risk of incarceration, strangulation and emergency surgery.
All femoral hernias in women should be assessed urgently by a specialist due to the significant risks associated with leaving the condition untreated.
Femoral hernia surgery
The aim of femoral hernia repair is to close the femoral canal and prevent tissue passing through the weakness.
Historically this was achieved using stitches alone. However, because there is little flexibility in the surrounding structures, these repairs could be uncomfortable and less durable.
At The British Hernia Centre, our preferred approach is to place a soft mesh plug within the femoral canal. This reinforces the area and helps provide a secure repair.
Many procedures can be performed under local anaesthetic through a small incision placed discreetly above the groin crease.
Why choose the British Hernia Centre?
The British Hernia Centre is the UK's first specialist hernia centre and has more than 37 years of experience in hernia diagnosis and treatment.
Femoral hernias require specialist assessment because they are less common than inguinal hernias and carry a higher risk of complications. Our team has extensive experience in diagnosing and repairing both straightforward and complex femoral hernias.
Contact The British Hernia Centre today to arrange a consultation or discuss your symptoms with a specialist hernia surgeon.