Can ejaculation cause inguinal hernia pain?

From the Guidelines

Yes, it is possible to experience pain during ejaculation if you have an inguinal hernia, as the increased abdominal pressure during sexual arousal and ejaculation can put strain on the hernia site, causing discomfort or sharp pain. This occurs because the inguinal canal, where these hernias occur, contains blood vessels and nerves that supply the testicles, so inflammation or pressure in this area can cause pain that radiates to the scrotum or penis during sexual activity 1. If you're experiencing this symptom, you should consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation. While waiting for medical attention, you might find relief by supporting the hernia with your hand during sexual activity, avoiding positions that increase abdominal pressure, or temporarily using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (200-400mg) or acetaminophen (500-1000mg) as needed 1. However, these are only temporary measures, and surgical repair is typically the definitive treatment for an inguinal hernia, especially if it's causing pain during normal activities like sexual intercourse.

Some key points to consider:

• The increased abdominal pressure during sexual activity can exacerbate hernia symptoms, including pain 1
• Surgical repair is often the most effective treatment for inguinal hernias, especially if they are causing significant symptoms or interfering with daily activities 1
• In the meantime, patients can try to manage their symptoms by avoiding heavy lifting, bending, or straining, and using supportive devices or clothing to reduce discomfort
• It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment, as they can assess the severity of the hernia and recommend the best course of action.

In terms of treatment options, the most recent guidelines recommend:

• Emergency hernia repair immediately when intestinal strangulation is suspected 1
• The use of mesh in clean surgical fields to reduce recurrence rates 1
• Laparoscopic approach for repair of incarcerated hernias in the absence of strangulation and suspicion of the need of bowel resection 1

From the Research

Inguinal Hernia Pain and Ejaculation

• Inguinal hernia repair can lead to chronic pain, including pain during sexual activities and ejaculation, in some patients 2, 3, 4, 5.
• The incidence of pain during sexual activity and ejaculation after inguinal hernia repair varies, with reported rates ranging from 3-4% to 9.0% 2, 3, 5.
• Studies have shown that laparoscopic surgical techniques, such as transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP), may be associated with lower rates of post-operative pain during sexual activity and ejaculation compared to open repair techniques 3.
• A tailored neurectomy, funicular release, and/or mesh removal may offer relief for patients experiencing dysejaculation and chronic pain after inguinal hernia repair 2.
• The exact mechanisms of inguinal hernia pain and ejaculation are not fully understood, but may involve nerve damage, pathology involving the vas deferens, or other somatic factors 4.

Risk Factors and Treatment

• Men are more likely to experience inguinal hernias and associated complications, including chronic pain and sexual dysfunction 6, 5.
• Watchful waiting may be a reasonable option for men with asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic inguinal hernias, but is not recommended for patients with symptomatic hernias or nonpregnant women 6.
• Treatment strategies for inguinal hernia pain and ejaculation may include neuropathic pain treatment, surgical exploration, and other interventions aimed at addressing the underlying causes of the pain 2, 4.