FOR WOMEN

Mesh-free inguinal hernia surgery

Reclaim your active lifestyle with a natural, mesh-free hernia repair. Our techniques restore strength and mobility, helping you recover fully and get back to what you love most.

BioHernia is rated 4.9 out of 5, on Google and Trustpilot

Choose our specialised approach to inguinal hernia surgery designed with women in mind—no plastic meshes, just thoughtful care tailored to your needs and a focus on a smooth, natural recovery.

98% success rate

Reliable results with a 98% success rate—you’re in good hands.

Two weeks waiting list

Quick access to care with an average wait time of just two weeks.

4 weeks to full recovery

Back to your routine in about four weeks—faster recovery, less downtime.

What is an inguinal hernia?

An inguinal hernia is a protrusion of organs or fatty tissue through a vulnerable spot in the abdominal wall, specifically occurring in the complex groin area, where various muscles, tendons, vessels, nerves, and reproductive organs are located.

Inguinal hernias are much less common in women than in men, with only about 3% experiencing one in their lifetime.

Symptoms

  • A bulge in the groin or lower abdomen, often more noticeable when standing or straining.
  • Discomfort or pain in the groin, especially during physical activity or lifting.
  • A feeling of pressure, heaviness, or pulling in the lower abdomen.
  • Burning or tenderness in the groin area.
Side note: If you notice a bulge lower in the groin or upper thigh, this may be a femoral hernia. Femoral hernias are more common in women and often require prompt medical attention. Learn more ↗

What are your options for treatment?

If you’ve been diagnosed with an inguinal hernia, you might be wondering: Do I need surgery, or are there other ways to manage it?

The right approach depends on several factors, including the size of your hernia, your symptoms, and your lifestyle.

Since hernias cannot heal naturally, surgery is the only definitive way to repair the weakened area. There are two main surgical approaches:

  • Mesh-Based Repair (Common in your local hospitals, but carries risks of chronic pain and foreign body reactions)
  • Mesh-Free Repair () The natural alternative, reinforcing your own tissue without implants.

At BioHernia, we specialise in mesh-free hernia repair because it provides a safer, more natural solution with less risk of chronic pain and complications. Our technique focuses on strengthening your natural tissue rather than relying on synthetic materials.

When is surgery recommended?

If your hernia is growing, causing pain, or affecting your daily activities, surgery is the best option to restore your comfort and prevent future complications.

Pros:
✅ The only definitive, long-term solution for hernias
✅ Prevents the hernia from growing larger or causing complications
✅ Restores strength to the abdominal wall
✅ Can relieve pain and discomfort caused by the hernia
✅ Different surgical options available (mesh-based or mesh-free)

Cons:
❌ Requires surgery and recovery time
❌ Some procedures (especially mesh-based) carry a risk of chronic pain or complications
❌ Potential risks include infection, nerve damage, or recurrence
❌ Temporary restrictions on physical activity during recovery

For small hernias that cause no pain or discomfort, some people choose to monitor their condition rather than undergo immediate surgery. This is known as “watchful waiting.” However, hernias do not heal on their own—over time, they tend to grow larger and can become painful or even dangerous.

Pros:
✅ No immediate surgery required
✅ Suitable for small, symptom-free hernias

Cons:
❌ The hernia may grow and become more painful over time
❌ Risk of sudden complications like strangulation, which requires emergency surgery

Some people try hernia belts or trusses to hold the bulge in place. While they may provide temporary relief, they do not fix the hernia and can even cause discomfort or skin irritation with prolonged use.

Pros:
✅ May reduce discomfort in certain situations

Cons:
❌ Does not treat the hernia—only masks symptoms
❌ Can weaken muscles over time, potentially making the hernia worse

The operation explained

Our mesh-free hernia repair technique directly addresses the issue by carefully stitching and reinforcing the weakened groin area, eliminating the need for plastic mesh. This method restores your natural tissue structure and is performed as out-patient surgery, meaning you’ll have the procedure and return to rest in the comfort of your own accommodation on the same day.

Start of the operation

After administering the anesthetics, we make a small horizontal incision of approximately 5 cm directly above your hernia, to access the hernia bulge.

The hernia sac is gently reduced back into the abdomen and the weakness in your abdominal wall is closed with sutures, using either the Shouldice, Desarda or Marcy technique.

Finally, the operation wound is closed using sutures and surgical glue. In all, the operation takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete. After full recovery, a minor scar of 3 to 5cm is left.

High success rate with minimal risk

Mesh repairs are often promoted as the gold standard due to concerns about high recurrence rates with non-mesh techniques. However, our experienced surgeons have refined the mesh-free approach to achieve a 98% success rate, with only a 2% risk of recurrence—virtually identical to the results of mesh-based repairs.

This means that using mesh offers no significant advantage over our specialised technique, while our approach avoids the risks associated with mesh implants, such as chronic pain, inflammation, and foreign body reactions. 

Why our non-mesh hernia surgery is the best choice for women

Many hernia repair techniques were originally developed with men in mind, often overlooking the unique anatomy and needs of women. This lack of consideration has contributed to higher rates of pain and complications for women undergoing hernia surgery. At BioHernia, we’ve adapted and refined our techniques to ensure they are perfectly suited to women, protecting vital structures and providing a safer, more effective solution. Here’s why our non-mesh hernia surgery is the best choice for women:

Women make up a smaller percentage of patients undergoing groin hernia surgery. Unfortunately, this means many surgeons lack experience in addressing the unique anatomy of the female groin. This gap in specialised care often leads to women being overrepresented in pain statistics after hernia surgery, especially when mesh implants are used. At BioHernia, we’ve dedicated ourselves to changing that by providing a surgical approach tailored specifically to women.

The tissues in a woman’s groin are naturally more resilient than in men, making our suture-based repairs a better and safer option. Unlike mesh implants, which can create unnecessary complications, our technique works in harmony with the body’s natural structure. This approach significantly reduces the risk of long-term pain while supporting a fast and natural recovery.

Not all surgeons are equipped to handle the differences in women’s groin anatomy. Historically, hernia repair techniques were developed with men’s anatomy in mind, which often leads to suboptimal outcomes for women. At BioHernia, we adapt these proven techniques to suit women’s unique needs, carefully tailoring each procedure to protect important structures in the female groin. With our extensive experience in non-mesh hernia repair for women, every surgery is performed with precision and care.

What sets our techniques apart from conventional hernia surgery?

Your groin is a sensitive area crucial for movement, flexibility and sexual function. Hernias disrupt this balance, causing discomfort and affecting quality of life. Our mesh-free approach restores strength and function naturally, avoiding synthetic mesh implants for a safer recovery.

Operation with mesh
Operation without mesh

Imagine a hernia as a hole in the tissues of your groin—a weak spot that allows tissue like fat or intestine to bulge through. Mesh-based operations place a synthetic patch over or under this hole, but they don’t fix the underlying weakness.

Our mesh-free technique addresses the source by closing the defect, restoring strength, and providing a durable solution without relying on synthetic materials.

The groin is a highly mobile part of your body, involved in everything from walking and bending to sexual activity. Unlike synthetic mesh, which remains rigid and can irritate surrounding nerves and tissues, a mesh-free repair uses your body’s natural flexibility to adapt and heal. This ensures that the repair integrates smoothly with your daily movements and doesn’t interfere with the sensitive structures in the area.

Mesh repairs come with potential complications, especially in a sensitive area like the groin. Chronic pain, infections, or discomfort from having a foreign object in your body are all risks associated with synthetic mesh. By relying on your own tissue, our mesh-free technique eliminates these risks and promotes natural healing, so you can recover without added worry.

Step-by-step visuals

Follow the links below for a detailed, illustrated step-by-step guide for each of the three techniques we use for inguinal hernias in women. 

The benefits of our mesh-free repairs

Inguinal hernia surgery without plastic mesh, reduces the risk of complications such as infection and chronic pain, promotes natural healing, and preserves the body’s integrity.

Fits an active lifestyle

We prioritise preserving your abdomen’s natural flexibility and function by using your body’s own tissues, avoiding unnecessary stress or complications by foreign body implants.

Avoid mesh-related complications

Like most of our patients, you might prefer a mesh-free hernia repair to avoid complications and support your long-term well-being by relying on your body’s own tissue for a more natural recovery.

Experienced team

Our specialised team of surgeons, anesthetists, and nurses, who also treat top athletes, provide you with world-class, mesh-free hernia care.

Personalised treatment

We take pride in offering personalised treatment plans, ensuring your unique needs are understood, your concerns are addressed, and your recovery is carefully tailored from the first consultation through post-operative care.
BioHernia is rated 4.9 out of 5, on Google and Trustpilot

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Assessment and video consultation with our surgeon

Travelling to our clinic

Undergoing the procedure

Recovery at home

Covered by the HSE in Ireland

If you’re an Irish patient seeking hernia surgery at our clinics in Germany, you are eligible for reimbursement under the EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive. This allows you to receive world-class care at BioHernia while having your treatment costs covered by the HSE. Here’s how the process works:

1.

Get a referral from your GP

2.

Pay for treatment in our clinic

3.

Submit your claim to the HSE

We set the bar for mesh-free hernia surgery — and keep raising it

As pioneers in mesh-free hernia surgery, we are dedicated to leading the way in innovative, patient-focused treatments. Over 25 years ago, our surgeons were among the first to challenge the widespread use of plastic meshes in hernia surgery. Their commitment to providing safer, more natural solutions has driven our mission ever since.

With decades of experience and countless successful operations, our surgeons, along with our entire team, have continuously refined and perfected our procedures, ensuring that you receive the highest standard of care.

25+

years headstart in specialising and improving mesh-free hernia repair techniques

500+

operations done yearly by each of our surgeons, anesthesists and nurses

What our experience means for you:

Reduced recurrence rates

Introduction of lighter forms of anesthesia

Less recovery time

Preservering important muscles and nerves

Reduced incision size

Reduced operation risks

Reduced suture materials

Less operating time

Development of post-operative recovery plans for top mobility

Treatment in our clinics

Discover why thousands of people from around the world choose our clinics for treatment. Here, you’ll receive compassionate care, unmatched expertise, and exceptional skill, ensuring the best possible experience.

1 – Pre-operation

The day before your operation, you’ll visit the clinic for final pre-surgery checks. During this visit, you’ll meet your surgeon and anesthesiologist, who will walk you through the procedure and answer any remaining questions you may have.

Will the surgeon examine my hernia?

Yes, your surgeon will perform a full examination the day before your operation, taking time to answer any questions you may have. Additionally, the anesthesiologist will conduct tests to ensure you’re fully prepared for the procedure the next day.

Follow any instructions provided by your surgeon, such as fasting before the procedure or temporarily stopping certain medications. Stay hydrated the day before (unless instructed otherwise) and ensure you get a good night’s sleep. Arriving well-rested, relaxed, and on time will help ensure a smooth process. If you have any questions about preparation, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

2 – The operation

Our operations are typically scheduled in the morning and take about 45 to 60 minutes to complete. After the procedure, you’ll wake up gradually in the recovery room, where our team will monitor you closely. Once you’re feeling steady and comfortable, you’ll be able to leave the clinic on your own feet.

Waiting list

Two weeks

Duration of operation

45 minutes

When to stop eating before operation

Exact time will be instructed day before operation

Type of anaesthetics

General anesthesia (local anesthesia is also possible)

Type of incision

Open incision (5 cm)

Success rate

98% (2% risk of recurrence)

Length of scar after operation

Three to five centimeters

Time to walking

Directly after operation

Time to driving car/cycling

Driving is allowed after one week for right sided hernias. For left-side hernias with an automatic transmission car, driving is allowed the next day

Time to full recovery

Four to six weeks

Time to cycling

Light cycling after one week

Showering

One day after operation

Wound care

Apply new wound dressing daily, for six days | No sutures to be removed

Flying

Two days after the operation

3 – After care

In the two days after your operation, you’ll have follow-up visits with your surgeon to support your recovery. These appointments allow your surgeon to monitor your healing, address any concerns, and provide personalised advice to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.

Looking for more information?

For a more in-depth look at each step of the process, from consultation to recovery, check out our comprehensive Patient guide. It’s designed to answer all your questions and help you feel fully prepared for your operation.

The science behind better hernia surgery

We believe in providing the best care by using techniques backed by solid research and proven results. Our mesh-free operation methods are supported by clinical studies, many of which are conducted by our own experienced surgeons. 

The road to full recovery

After your hernia repair repair, the journey to full recovery begins. We’re committed to helping you navigate this road to healing, ensuring you can embrace your active lifestyle once again. In the first week you might experience a bit of discomfort at the operation site. It’s not unusual to notice some swelling or a touch of bruising. Best to take it easy this week, though a short stroll can help with blood flow and ease stiffness.

Avoid lifting anything heavier than 10kg to give your body the time it needs to heal properly.

Focus on fibre-rich foods to prevent constipation and include plenty of protein to support tissue repair.

Stay active with light movement like walking, as it promotes blood flow and supports recovery.

The following weeks

As you move into the second week and beyond, your recovery will gradually progress. Swelling and bruising should subside, and your energy levels will start to return. While it’s important to continue avoiding heavy lifting or intense activity, you can begin to reintroduce more of your usual routine during this period.

Weeks 2 and 3

You can slowly increase your activity level, incorporating light household tasks, short walks, or gentle cycling on a stationary bike at home or in the gym. These are all great ways to improve blood flow and rebuild strength without placing strain on the surgical site. Be sure to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard during this stage.

Weeks 4 to 6

By this stage, your recovery is well underway, and you’ll feel significantly stronger. You can confidently return to your regular activities, including more dynamic exercises like running or competitive sports. For those who enjoy weightlifting or more strenuous workouts, this is the time to start reintroducing these activities. While the repair is strong enough to handle heavier lifting, it’s still important to ease into it, gradually increasing intensity to allow your body to fully adapt. Most patients find they’re back to feeling like themselves by the end of week 6, ready to embrace an active lifestyle without limitations.

Resuming normal life

Most patients can return to office work or light-duty tasks within 1–2 weeks. However, for physically demanding jobs, it’s best to wait until 4–6 weeks after the procedure.

You can resume light activities, such as walking, within the first week after surgery. For more strenuous exercises like weightlifting, running, or intense workouts, it’s best to wait 4–6 weeks and ease back into them gradually, paying close attention to how your body feels.

No, after the recovery period, you’ll be able to return to your previous activity and fitness levels without any limitations. Whether it’s working out, heavy lifting, or enjoying your favorite hobbies, you can confidently resume life as it was before the hernia—strong, active, and unrestricted.

Hear from people that chose BioHernia

BioHernia is rated 4.9 out of 5, on Google and Trustpilot

Honest reviews from those who chose us

Frequently asked questions

Can an inguinal hernia heal on its own?

No, an inguinal hernia cannot heal on its own. Without treatment, a hernia can worsen over time, leading to complications such as pain, increased swelling, or even strangulation, where the blood supply to the affected tissue is cut off, and you have to undergo emergency surgery.

An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. Several factors can contribute to the development of this condition, including:

  • Physical Strain: Heavy lifting, straining during bowel movements, or persistent coughing can put extra pressure on the abdominal muscles, leading to an inguinal hernia.
  • Weak Abdominal Wall: Some people are born with a naturally weak abdominal wall, making them more susceptible to hernias.
  • Aging: As we age, our muscles tend to weaken, which can increase the risk of developing a hernia.
  • Previous Surgery: Operations in the abdominal area can weaken the muscle wall, making hernias more likely.
  • Chronic Conditions: Conditions that increase pressure in the abdomen, such as obesity or fluid buildup, can contribute to hernia development.

Yes, groin hernias in women are different due to anatomical differences. In women, hernias can sometimes be harder to diagnose because they may not always cause a noticeable bulge and can present as pelvic or groin pain instead. Additionally, the female groin anatomy requires a more tailored surgical approach to avoid damage to important structures. That’s why choosing a surgeon experienced in treating women is so important—techniques designed for men may not be as effective or safe for women.

Yes, women often recover more quickly and comfortably from hernia surgery. This is because the tissues in a woman’s groin are naturally more resilient, and the procedure tends to be less invasive compared to surgery for men. At BioHernia, our suture-based, non-mesh technique works in harmony with your body, minimising disruption and supporting a faster, more natural recovery. Many women are surprised at how quickly they feel better and can return to light activities.

Our operations are typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. However, local anesthesia is also an option in certain cases, depending on your specific needs and preferences. Our anesthesiologist will discuss the process with you in detail during your pre-operative consultation to ensure you’re fully informed and prepared.

Yes, at our clinic, our highly experienced surgeons personally perform all operations to ensure the highest standards of care. They are directly involved in every step of the procedure, from the initial consultation to the surgery itself, and the post-operative follow-up.

In women, inguinal hernias can sometimes present differently than in men. While a visible bulge in the groin area is a common symptom, women may also experience vague pelvic or groin pain, discomfort during physical activity, or pressure in the lower abdomen. Because these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, it’s crucial to get an evaluation from a hernia specialist who is familiar with diagnosing hernias in women.

Non-mesh repair is an excellent option for women and is often a better fit for their anatomy. Women’s groin tissues tend to be stronger and more resilient, making suture-based repairs highly effective. This approach avoids the complications sometimes associated with mesh implants, such as chronic pain or interference with surrounding tissues. With non-mesh repair, women often experience a smoother recovery and long-lasting results.

Ready to take the next step?