Which type of hernia is most common among males?

The most common type of hernia among males is the indirect inguinal hernia. This type occurs when abdominal contents protrude through the inguinal canal, specifically, when the spermatic cord passes from the abdomen to the scrotum. The indirect inguinal hernia is more prevalent in males due to the anatomical structures involved in the male reproductive system.

Inguinal hernias, particularly indirect ones, can develop due to congenital weaknesses in the abdominal wall or as a result of increased pressure from straining, heavy lifting, or chronic cough. They are characterized by their position relative to the inferior epigastric vessels and the location through which they occur, making them more common in males due to the presence of the inguinal canal.

In comparison, while direct inguinal hernias do occur, they are less common than indirect hernias in males. Other types such as femoral hernias are more often observed in females, and hiatal hernias involve a different anatomical area related to the diaphragm and the stomach, making them unrelated to the common hernia types found in the inguinal region.