Patient guide · Hernia surgery

Umbilical vs inguinal hernia: which one do I have?

By Mr Trif Papettas FRCS, Consultant Colorectal & General Surgeon · Reviewed August 2026

Two of the most common hernias appear in different places on the body. Knowing which you might have helps you understand what happens next — though only an examination can be certain.

Inguinal hernia — the groin

An inguinal hernia is a bulge in the groin, where tissue pushes through a weak point in the abdominal wall. It is the most common hernia, particularly in men, and often becomes more noticeable when coughing, straining or lifting. Over a lifetime, inguinal hernias affect a substantial minority of men and a much smaller proportion of women.

Umbilical hernia — the belly button

An umbilical or paraumbilical hernia appears at or just next to the navel. In adults it is often linked with previous pregnancies, weight change or anything that repeatedly raises pressure in the abdomen. It typically shows as a soft bulge at the belly button that may be more obvious on standing or straining.

How to tell them apart

The simplest clue is location: groin versus navel. Both types often bulge more on straining and shrink or disappear when you lie down. Because other, less common hernias and lumps can look similar, it is worth having any new bulge examined rather than self-diagnosing.

Do they need repair?

The principles are similar for both: hernias that are symptomatic or enlarging are usually repaired, and both are commonly done as a day case. Small adult umbilical hernias are often repaired because they tend to grow over time.

Common questions

Mr Trif Papettas FRCS

Consultant Colorectal & General Surgeon at Nuffield Health Warwickshire Hospital, Leamington Spa. Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, JAG dual-accredited in colonoscopy and gastroscopy, with a large personal case volume in open, keyhole and robotic-assisted hernia repair — including complex and recurrent cases.