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June is both Hernia and Men’s Health Awareness Month, a period that brings attention to the prevalence of inguinal hernias among men. Statistics indicate that approximately one in four men will experience an inguinal hernia during their lifetime. Additionally, hernias can occur as a complication following prostatectomies, which are common surgeries for prostate cancer.
Hernias result from the protrusion of an organ or tissue through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or tissue, creating a noticeable bulge. The Christ Hospital Health Network offers advanced surgical options to address this condition. Their general surgeons utilize minimally invasive techniques, including the Da Vinci 5 robotic surgical system, which promotes quicker recovery times and reduced pain.
“Hernias can be painful and may need to be dealt with surgically,” said Jonathan Schilling, MD, general surgeon at The Christ Hospital Health Network. “Through our advanced robotic-assisted surgery program, we can perform hernia repairs with great precision and minimal trauma to surrounding tissue. One of the biggest advantages is that patients typically spend about half as much time in the hospital compared to traditional surgery, and most return to normal activities much sooner. If you're diagnosed with a hernia, you might hope to delay or avoid surgery. The watch-and-wait approach can work for some patients. However, a thorough evaluation should be performed to help guide you when making treatment decisions.”
Inguinal hernias are categorized into three types: indirect inguinal hernias occurring from birth or later in life; direct inguinal hernias developing due to factors like aging or strenuous activity; and femoral hernias more commonly seen in older women than men.
The signs of an inguinal hernia might not always be apparent initially but often require medical attention over time as symptoms develop. These symptoms include a bulge between the lower stomach and thighs, sudden groin pain during physical activities such as lifting or coughing, and sensations of aching or burning in the groin area.
The Christ Hospital Health Network has been providing healthcare services for 135 years with facilities including an acute care hospital located in Mt. Auburn, along with various outpatient centers across the region. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as Cincinnati's top hospital and included in Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals list for 2025, they remain committed to improving community health through affordable quality care.
