A ventral hernia is an umbrella term for a protrusion of intestine or other tissue through a weakness or gap in the abdominal wall. The most common types of ventral hernias are:

• Umbilical Hernia: Umbilical hernias may appear as a bulge or swelling near the belly button that becomes more noticeable when you cry, cough, or strain.
• Incisional Hernia: An incisional hernia appears at, or in close proximity to, a surgical incision (usually 3-6 months post-surgery) through which an intestine, organ, or other tissue protrudes.^2,3
   

Ventral hernias may occur for any number of reasons, including a weakness already present at birth or from injury, surgery, gradual wear and tear, or underlying health conditions. The most common contributing factors are:

• Chronic or severe coughing or vomiting
• Manual labor that involves heavy lifting or pushing
• Abdominal injury or surgery
• Aging and natural muscle degeneration
• Chronic obesity
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Chronic constipation 
• Congenital birth defect
• Connective tissue diseases
• Diabetes
• COPD, emphysema, or other breathing-related disorders
   

In some instances, a hernia may become incarcerated, which means the abdominal content is trapped and can no longer be pushed back into its natural place. Hernias may also become strangulated, where the blood flow is cut off, which may cause severe pain; nausea or vomiting may also develop. If you have any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.⁵
 

To identify whether or not you have an inguinal hernia, your healthcare provider will likely begin with a physical examination. During the exam, you may be asked to stand and cough to make the hernia appear bigger. If the hernia isn’t visible from the outside, imaging tests including an ultrasound or CT scan may be performed. 

Additionally, they may perform blood tests or use one or more diagnostic tests, such as a(n):

• Ultrasound
• CT scan
• MRI

See Diagnostic Testing for Hernias →