1. Myth: Only Men Get Hernias
   Fact: Although men are more likely to develop inguinal hernias, women and children are also susceptible to developing various types of hernias—like umbilical, femoral, and hiatal.¹ If you think you may have a hernia, it’s important to contact your doctor to obtain a proper diagnosis.
   Download Hernia Checklist →
   
   
2. Myth: It’s Not Possible to Reduce the Risk of Developing a Hernia
   Fact: Except for those present at birth, it is possible to lower the risk of developing a hernia through proper lifting techniques, maintaining a healthy body weight, increasing core strength, quitting smoking, and avoiding chronic coughing, sneezing, or straining.
   Download 5 Steps to Lower Your Risk of Developing a Hernia →
   
   
3. Myth: Hernias Will Heal on Their Own
   Fact: An untreated hernia will not heal on its own; surgery is required to repair a hernia. A hernia may not get worse for months or even years, though. And, while hernias are not usually life threatening, you should not ignore or make light of the signs.² Whether a hernia is reducible (one that is easily pushed back in) or non-reducible, it’s important to contact a doctor to determine what course of action should be taken. Depending on the situation, a doctor may opt for a “watch and wait” approach or recommend surgery. However, if you are in pain, it is important to seek immediate medical attention because it can be life-threatening.
   Download Hernia Pain: Know When to See a Doctor →
   
   
4. Myth: Hernias are Caused Only by Improper Lifting or Lifting Too Much Weight
   Fact: Many things can contribute to developing a hernia, including heavy lifting, but also from genetics, age, chronic coughing, obesity, pregnancy, previous surgeries, or other risk factors. Some hernias are even present at birth due to congenital weakness in the abdominal wall.³
   Download Lifting Techniques to Help Decrease Chances of Hernia →
   
   
5. Myth: Hernias are an “Adult” Thing
   Fact: Hernias tend to be more common in adults, but can also affect children and babies. While openings in the abdominal wall are normal in babies (and typically close before or right after birth), it is possible for intestines or other organs to push through and create a hernia. Depending on the type, a hernia may close on its own several years after birth or require surgery to fix.⁴
   Read Hernias in Babies and Children →
   
   
6. Myth: You Can Always See or Feel a Hernia
   Fact: Not all hernias produce visible bulges or can be felt. Some hernias occur internally and may not present with obvious physical signs. Depending on the type of hernia, people may experience symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or acid reflux. Consult your doctor to learn more.¹
   Read A Comprehensive Guide to Hernias →
   
   
7. Myth: All Hernia Surgeries Are the Same
   Fact: There are different types of hernia surgeries including open repair, laparoscopic repair, and robotic. The choice of procedure depends on factors such as the size and type of hernia, the patient’s overall health, and the surgeon’s preference or experience.⁵
   See Surgical Options →
   
   
8. Myth: Once Repaired, a Hernia Can Never Come Back
   Fact: While hernia surgery can repair a hernia, it is possible for a hernia to reoccur for several reasons, including surgical error, improper healing of a surgical wound or other post-surgical conditions. If you have a (sometimes) painful bulge that appears at or near the site of the original hernia,⁶ schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. 
   Read Recurrent Hernias →
   
   
9. Myth: A Hernia Can Be Pushed Back In
   Fact: Reducing a hernia (the act of pushing a hernia back in) may offer temporary relief, but it’s not a permanent solution because the opening in the abdominal wall remains. With certain movements or physical strain, a hernia will likely reappear.⁷
   Read 5 Steps to Take If You Think You May Have a Hernia →
   
   
10. Myth: Recovery from Hernia Surgery Takes Months
    Fact: With advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques, generally many patients can return to light activities within a few days and resume normal activities within 4-6 weeks. Full recovery times depend on the type/size of hernia, the individual, and the type of surgery performed.¹
    Read Recovery From Hernia Surgery →

If you suspect you have a hernia or have been diagnosed with one, it’s important to talk with your surgeon if you have questions or concerns and download our Doctor Discussion Guide to help prepare for your hernia consultation.

The guidance provided in this article follows general rules that should be discussed with your doctor. This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not substitute for medical advice. If in doubt, always consult your doctor.