Hernia in Women
The assumption that only men suffer from hernia is wrong. Hernia can occur in children and women as well, although it is true that it is more common in men. Hernia is life threatening, whether it is in men, women or children and should therefore, not taken for granted or ignored. Some types of hernia are commonly seen in women but the type or symptoms of hernia on women are also dependent to its location as it is in men. The location of the hernia has a vital role in the assessment of hernia symptoms in women.
The common symptoms of hernia on women are as follows:
• Hump or bulge – a hump or bulge appears under the abdominal wall when the protrusion pushes through the hole or weakened abdominal wall. Strenuous activities such as physical exercises, lifting of heavy objects and even coughing put a strain on the abdominal muscle, increasing the size of the bulge.
• Pain – Dull to severe pain is felt due to the tearing or stretching of the tissues but pain can also be caused by irritation or damaged nerve. The pain is usually localized, on the site of the hernia itself.
• Nausea or Vomiting – When the intestine is entrapped within the hernia, the normal flow of blood through the intestine is blocked causing nausea and vomiting. A partial blockage may only cause nausea without vomiting. It may also be a reason for loss of appetite
• Constipation – When the obstruction is total or the blockage is complete, it can also cause constipation which further promotes the protrusion.
• Urinary problems – A blockage or obstruction of the bladder, just like the intestine, can cause bladder stone, urinary burning, frequent urinary infections, increased frequency or hesitancy in urination.
• Other symptoms could be pain experienced during sexual intercourse
