Hernia repair information 

How do you get a hernia?

You can be born with a weakness in your abdominal wall, which makes you more prone to developing a hernia.

You can also develop a hernia without an inherited weakness, since they get more common as you age. The causes can be different, but are generally associated with some type of pressure on a weak area in the wall of your abdomen.

Damage to the muscle wall can also be caused by simply coughing, straining while using the toilet, being overweight, pregnant, or lifting something heavy.

Can hernias be dangerous?

The biggest risk is if a hernia becomes strangulated, which means the part of the bowel enclosed by the hernia becomes trapped. If its blood supply and oxygen is compromised, you will need a hernia repair operation to free the bowel as quickly as possible.

If the strangulated hernia is left untreated, gangrene (tissue necrosis) can develop, and the affected part of the bowel can be damaged, creating a life-threatening situation.

How long will I need to stay in hospital?

The length of your hospital stay depends on what kind of anaesthetic was used, how easy or difficult the operation was and the state of your general health.

If the hernia repair only took as little as 20 to 30 minutes, you may be able to go home the same day or the following day. Some hernia operations are more complicated however, especially if there is strangulation or damage to the bowel. If this is the case, you may have to stay longer in hospital for observation.

When will I be able to have a shower or bath?

You may be able to take a shower in the next couple of days after your hernia repair, but ask your doctor if you need to keep the wounds dry and for how long. A bath, for example, may not be possible.

When will I be able to exercise?

Walking increases circulation and speeds up the healing process. You should not, however, do anything that puts pressure on the abdomen, such as lifting heavy objects. When you get up from a sitting position, use your knees and your back, not your abdominal muscles, to pull yourself up.

What kind of food can I eat?

A high fibre diet, with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables will avoid constipation, which can be a side effect of pain medication and inactivity. Straining to go to the toilet after a hernia operation is to be avoided. You may need to ask your doctor about stool softeners or laxatives if you are constipated.

When will I be able to drive?

A general anaesthetic administered during hernia repair can stay in your body for up to a week and make driving dangerous. You must talk to your doctor about when you can start driving again, as you should never drive while taking prescription pain medication. Also, driving may strain your wound incision.

When will I be able to return to work?

Depending on what type of job you do and how active you are, your full recovery may take up to six weeks before you are fully able to return to a normal work schedule.

When will I be able to do sports?

You will not be able to play sports or engage in strenuous exercise for a few weeks. Ask your doctor about when it is safe to resume exercise routines or playing sports.

When can I start having sex?

Ask your doctor when it's appropriate for you to resume sexual activity. Your physical comfort will provide a good guide.